Confucius Ads Library: Ads

Ads for Diet on 2024-05-07

Id	Vlad	Saved	Scrape Time	Status	Scrape Result	Adarchiveid	Title	Body	Cta Type	Link Url	Pageid	Page Name	Page Profile Uri	Page Like Count	Collationcount	Collationid	Enddate	Entitytype	Gatedtype	Hidedatastatus	Isaaaeligible	Isactive	Isprofilepage	Cta Text	Pagename	Ad Creative	Caption	Effective Authorization Category	Display Format	Link Description	Link Url	Creation Time	Page Profile Picture Url	Page Entity Type	Instagram Actor Name	Instagram Profile Pic Url	Version	Current Page Name	Startdate	Actions
1,778,105	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778271}'	No	2024-05-08 18:34	active	760	356878703584697	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	My husband had been having an affair with his assistant. I could hear the sounds of moans pouring from our bedroom before I opened the door.<br /> When I heard the wailing moans of my soon to be ex husband's "secretary" I walked my undressed hip directly to them.<br /> I took a deep breath clearing the visual of them having intercourse from my head. Oh, I had grand plans for these two adulterers.<br /> I opened the door, walking in and pausing to watch them. <br /> I walked right past both of their startled figures, to my dresser where my phone was with a smirk. "Hey guys, smile for the camera!"<br /> I turned on my camera, snapping pictures of them on the bed still frozen, both staring at me in shock.<br /> "Nice.Please forgive the intrusion, I'll be on my way in just a sec."<br /> ————————<br /> Vivian<br /> I took a deep breath compose myself as the my introduction to the crowd began. My heart felt as if it was in my throat right now. It felt like the weight of the world was centered on my shoulders.<br /> If I was successful, not only would it launch my modeling career at age 28, but I would increase funding for this campaign.<br /> Since majority of the crowd outside of these curtains did not have my skin tone, I had to impress them.<br /> Today is the beginning of a campaign launching models with brown skin into the dominantly pale skinned model industry. I will be the face of the campaign and in order to be successful, I must make these rich people want to fund this campaign.<br /> And I will succeed.<br /> There has never been a fashion show like this, where I haven't had my hair straightened, my make up has not been contoured on my face to match those around me, and I am not walking fiercely down the walkway as if I'm walking on fire.<br /> I had always been confident in myself as a black woman yet I still found myself getting stage fright before my shows. Even more so with the bold campaign I was now launching.<br /> And after many failed seductive attempts with my husband lately, I wasn't sure if I could seduce the crowd before me.<br /> Instead I am to walk slowly, very seductively. My natural kinky curls framed my face, I have little to no make up on so that I appear soft as I am, completely naturally.<br /> The curtains are pulled back and as I began my walk down the aisle, it is not hard at all to seduce the crowd.<br /> I capture everybody's attention and when I pass them, the from the corner of my eye, I can see the effect I have on them and I couldn't help how it boosted my confidence.<br /> My walk is so natural and graceful that I practically glide down the run way. The bronze light is soft and makes my brown skin glow in the dark like highlight. The sway of my hips is mesmerizing to the crowd, so I pause and I turn slowly looking at all the faces to give them my best seductive smile.<br /> Many have lost their composure, becoming flustered by my attention. I hold my smirk, this is my crowd now.<br /> I almost falter when I see that my husband is not among the crowd. Once upon a time, he was always the first face that I graced with my smiles. He had never missed one of my shows in the beginning, looking up at me just as entranced as the rest of the crowd.<br /> I can feel my eyes watering so I quickly look away from them and continue making my way down the runway.<br /> When I finish with the crowd, I walk back up the runway and into the darkness hiding me from the crowd as they all cheer. In the darkness I hold my face, I can't help the excitement that overcomes me. I did it!<br /> My husband had promised to be here today. If he wasn't behind stage with the rest of my crew then I didn't know what this would mean for our marriage. I could worry about all that tomorrow though.<br /> Tonight, I fuccccckkking owned that crowd and I was sure going to celebrate my success on my birthday.<br /> I let out the breath that I had been holding and recompose myself then I walk behind stage to the small group gathered for me. I grin victoriously, strutting up to them saucily.<br /> "You did it, Vi! They all looked like they wanted to eat you up." My best friend and manager Naomi screams running up to me to hug me while all my co-workers clap and shout congrats. "How about some birthday cake before the next show?"<br /> I give Naomi the biggest hug and nod.<br /> "What's wrong girl?" She asks noticing something is wrong right away.<br /> I want to be happy but I have this really terrible feeling in my chest. I hug her back trying not to smile awkwardly as I ask her if my husband Richard made an appearance tonight.<br /> "No, I didn't see him? Was he supposed to be here?" She asked.<br /> "Yes." I replied. I could see the look of pity on her face as she shook her head, it had been about 4 years since he had been to one of my modeling gigs. And what type of message did that send? He was my husband and should've been here to support me.<br /> Part of me isn't really surprised, I knew when I refused to quit modeling and depend fully on Richard financially that our marriage would change.<br /> But this job is what helped get his business up and running when we graduated college with no immediate careers in sight. So I decided to keep modeling even after Richard became financially stable, despite it not being anything closely related to what I'd majored in.<br /> Naomi attempts to cheer me up with the double chocolate layer cake she baked me for my birthday and I grin at her trying my best not to let my intuition eat away at my happiness, nobody wanted an unhappy campaign model right?<br /> I finally manage to escape Naomi and her devil addicting double chocolate cake, making my way out front to the crowd to make my appearances and answer questions for those who had attended the opening show before the next show started.<br /> Afterwards when it was time for the second show, I made my way backstage to my booth to check my phone for any messages from Richard. He was a very successful business man that had recently become the owner of the company he had worked for, thanks to me, why shouldn't he take days off to support my career? Why else was his secretary always around for then?<br /> The bad feeling in my chest only increase at that point, and I recognized it as my intuition. Something was up and I was so angry that I seemed like the only one who wanted our marriage so I was gonna confront Richard about it. After not locating my phone, I realized that I had left my phone at home and since this was the second show I could afford to leave. I was only required to show my face at the after party that started in 6 hours and I would be back by then.<br /> I grabbed my bag and dipped before anyone noticed, sneaking another slice of Naomi's cake as I went.<br /> When I finally made it home I sat in the car for a moment smashing on the piece of cake because Richard hated when I ate sweets. It was my birthday, I deserved to smash my face in it!<br /> When I finished, I walked into the house instantly noticing the clothing littered the floor. There were female clothing scattered among the trail that led upstairs. A sickening feeling overcame me at that moment but I forced the cake that had suddenly came up back down, following the trail of clothing up the stairs to my bedroom door slowly, quietly.<br /> I could hear the sounds of moans and groans pouring from our bedroom.<br /> My husband had grown bold, it seemed. Obviously he had no respect for me if he passed up one of the most successful campaign launches for my career to bring a bimbo to our house to have an affair.<br /> I almost turned to leave, wanting to just walk away with my heart partially intact but I knew I had to see this. I tried to mentally prepare myself for this. I wanted to know who the bimbo was.<br /> To bring a woman to our home and have intercourse with her in our bed on my birthday? He was so disrespectful and just asking to be caught. As I stepped closer to the door, I could hear her telling him how much she loved him through the door.<br /> He responded, telling her that he loved her too. I closed my eyes counting to ten and gathering what remained of my resolve.<br /> I can do this, I thought. I must see this.<br /> I forced myself to open the door, my eyes widening as I saw them in the act up close and personal.<br /> I realized that he had been having an affair with his assistant, Emily. The sad part is that this did not appear to be just a regular experience. They were making love and the familiarity of it told me that it had been happening for quite a while. I couldn't have prepared myself for the pain that I felt slicing through my heart in a thousand years.<br /> My soul was in agony, this was not something that the mind couldn't rationalize for the sake of saving my heart from breaking into pieces. It had been in my face all along and I had been blind to it because we had started attending marriage counseling together. What a joke the marriage counselling must have been to both of them.<br /> My marriage was over. And that one thought kept repeating inside my head like a broken record.<br /> It's over.<br /> I dropped my bag at the door, turning to run away from the sight of them. I couldn't take the pain of watching them anymore. My marriage to Richard had meant everything to me, we had been married 10 years.<br /> I managed to hold my sobs as I ran outside of my home, past my car, and down the streets of our beautiful neighborhood. I just let myself run freely, trying to run myself to exertion to exchange the pain from my heart to the pain in my legs. My silk dress had ripped all up my thighs exposing my lace panties, too delicate for the strain that my pumping legs made. I did not care at all, not pausing to cover myself or look if anybody was looking at me.<br /> When I finally stopped to catch my breath and look around I was just at the local park 10 minutes away from my home. I finally let my sobs out, breaking down completely as I saw that the park was empty.<br /> Richard had been my high-school best friend turned sweetheart after prom, when I gave him my first time. I had always loved him, just fell in love our senior year. I had wanted to have children with him and grow old with him, I did everything right to keep him happy. I had never looked back and regretted anything until now. I knew that we were never supposed to be more than friends but I still married him after high-school because he had been the only guy I wanted to be with.<br /> Richard had cheated once before in college but that was just a one time at a party. He hadn't came back to our dorm that night and that next morning, I had just knew. I forgave him since we were still basically kids in college, told him he was still who I wanted and that I wouldn't dream of sleeping with another man. But still once a cheater, always a cheater.<br /> He destroyed me..<br /> Everything else I could deal with. Marriage was about forgiveness and making sacrifices, right?But sharing intimacy with another? That was the worst type of betrayal. I couldn't stay with him after this. I couldn't forgive him for this, but I was too weak to walk away. Love didn't just fade away, the hurt was still there stabbing me in my chest. I wanted him to hurt, I knew that he loved me. I was the real mastermind behind his company. He couldn't afford to lose me.<br /> But I had nothing left to give. I had put everything including my soul into my marriage, only for it to shatter before my eyes. I couldn't stand another thought of being on this Earth without him after this, either.<br /> He was my only best friend after all.<br /> How would I end it?<br /> My LIFE.<br /> How would I commit suicide?<br /> Pills? Hanging? Knife? Bridge?<br /> I could have a peaceful death. I would drown myself, let the water end the anguish that brewed inside my heart. And when they found my body, he would know.<br /> He did this. He lost me, forever.<br /> ---<br /> Vivian<br /> Silence makes many people very uncomfortable. It's non existence is deafening, it can be insistent and unable to escape. People cannot stand the thought of being alone in silence. People crave interaction with people, they crave attention.<br /> I, however, craved intimacy. And I was not just talking about intercourse.<br /> Intimacy wasn't about who could touch my body, it was about who could touch my soul.<br /> Intimacy was the purest form of connection, something I lacked in my marriage.<br /> Now I wished that I could capture that silence for myself. I wanted to bottle that silence, preserve it just for me so that I could release it every time my thoughts overwhelmed my head.<br /> I studied the ripples that my legs made in the pond.<br /> Beautiful, I thought, tilting my head up to look up into the dark sky. I closed my eyes, if I waited any longer I would lose my nerve. I sucked in my breath, desperately trying to taste the sweetness of summer one last time but it was too late. I tasted bitterness on my tongue and I felt it engulfing me, tainting the taste that I had wanted to savor. I gasped, inhaling fresh air, despair filled me at the thought that I would leave this world with my soul not at peace. I forced myself to believe that I could taste the final sweet taste of summer and it subdued my mind as I gently stretched my legs side to side before sliding into the water allowing the water to close over my face without panicking.<br /> The water was colder as I floated underneath it. My dress seems tighter, constricting my gentle movements so I removed it, ripping it off my body before I really started to panic.<br /> Peaceful. Peaceful. Peaceful. I chanted inside my head, all I wanted was to die peacefully. Something inside me won't allow that though, something rebels. I am rebelling.<br /> I've never been a coward, why should I start now?<br /> Because it hurts...<br /> Suddenly loud ringing starts in my ears and I gasp stupidly, releasing the the little air that I had been holding onto. The water has changed, becoming insistent and dragging me down. The fear consumes me, I am really terrified to die. What happened to dying peacefully?<br /> Just fight for your life. My conscience screams.<br /> I desperately fling my arms back and forth, pumping my legs to swim to the surface of the water. I swim until I can see a glimmer of light in the dark water, the surface was just there but my body is weaker now. I can barely move because I've driven my body to exertion.<br /> I am just about to reach the surface when my breath finally gives out and I am forced to swallow the water.<br /> I've tempted Satan with my soul, now he is going to make me drown.<br /> You were almost there, I couldn't help thinking as I began to jerk uncontrollably, the water inducing spasms of my larynx. Within 30 seconds, the laryngospasms begin to weaken and I'm losing consciousness. My life begins flashing before my eyes and as my brain skims through my wonderful childhood, it isn't long before I see Richard. He was my first best friend. My first love. My first everything and my life with him flashed.<br /> Realizing that I loved him. Marrying him after high school graduation. The discovery of his infidelity in college. Choosing to stay and work through our problems. Graduating college with honors with him at my side. Pursuing a modeling career to help support us while he became stable. Then finally coming home tonight to discover that that infidelity had never ceased.<br /> The pain of knowing that 10 years of my life had been wasted in a one-sided loveless marriage with a cheating prick did not hit me as hard as earlier. The pain was just gone, I had not loss much with Richard... only time.<br /> Then my flashes stop and I see what could be, my life starting anew. Dating, a faithful relationship with the man of my dreams, having children in my little farm house. I want it so bad but it is just out of my grasp. The water is pulling me down, refusing to allow me to float just under the waterline anyone. I am sinking like a stone.<br /> I know that brain failure is imminent but I also know that there is one last chance to survive.<br /> My body forces me to inhale again and with that force, I propel myself upwards. I finally break the surface of the water, spitting up all that awful tasting water that I had pretended tasted so sweet. I climb out of the pond, looking down at the misleading peaceful looking waves.<br /> I ripped off the remainder of my underwear hating the feeling of wet clothing on my skin, decidi<br /> ng right then and there that I would never step foot in any large body of water ever again. I start my walk back to my home.<br /> When I opened the door to the house and made my way pass the clothing, I smiled a very dark smile.<br /> When I heard the wailing moans of my soon to be ex husband's "secretary" I walked my undressed hip directly to them.<br /> I took a deep breath clearing the visual of them making love from my head. Oh, I had grand plans for these two adulterers.<br /> And now I would not go silently.<br /> I opened the door, walking in and pausing to watch them. They were making love, it was no question.<br /> The door smacked the wall hard alerting them that I was here. Emily's shocked gasp filled the air.<br /> I walked right past both of their startled figures, to my dresser where my phone was with a smirk. "Hey guys, smile for the camera!"<br /> I turned on my camera, snapping pictures of them on the bed still frozen, both staring at me in shock.<br /> "Nice." I commented before making my way to my walk in closet. "Please forgive the intrusion, I'll be on my way in just a sec." I grabbed a dress for the after party that I was now late for and made my way to the bathroom humming happily.<br /> At the angle that I took the pictures, the affair was unmistakable. I smiled at them again when I passed. Emily now scrambled to grab the covers that they had kicked on the floor. I chuckled, I had already saw everything she had to offer, with the comforter out of her reach she was now using Richard to shield her and neither of them would make eye contact with me.<br /> "At least own up to what y'all were doing, be adults about it. I'm not mad." I said.<br /> "Vivian, I can-" Richard began to try to make that dumb hip excuse, with that dumb hip look on his face pissing me off. The nasal sound of his voice was pissing me off. Everything about him was pissing me off. What did I ever see in him? Love sure blinded the outta me if I was just noticing this now.<br /> "Explain? No need to Richard, I see you both right now. Again, continue if you wish, I'll be on my way in a minute." I said, shutting the bathroom door and showering.<br /> I thanked fate for allowing me to leave my phone home in order to discover the affair. I took my sweet time, going all out with my routine and appreciating the warm water after I had been floating in that cold hip water for close to 3 hours. I even started to sing, ignoring Richard when he knocked on the door calling my name.<br /> After I got done I continued ignoring him while I dried, lathered myself with oils, and did my hair. my time was all my own again. My days of answering to him were over.<br /> "Freedom," I sang, opening the door and pushing past him. "Why were you undressed? What do you mean you're not mad?" He was frowning at the dress that I had on. "Where are you going Vivian?" He asked.<br /> "Not today, Richard." I said, ignoring his question. Both of them were now dressed and she sat on the perfectly made as if the affair had never happened.<br /> "Vivian, I would like to apologize," She began as we made eye- contact. I could almost respect her, but she was the worst type of person. They both were. <br /> "How long?" I asked her.<br /> "About-" She began.<br /> "Emily shut it, Vivian its not what you think. We-"<br /> "Save it, Richard. I was speaking to Emily, woman to woman. Now, how long?" I said looking at her. I saw his disbelief that I had just cut him off. I had never did it before but then again, I had never disrespected him by cheating or even entertaining the thought either.<br /> "About 4 years." Longer than I thought initially, but now that I thought back he had stopped attending my shows around that time.<br /> "Wow, I hope you both have a good night. <br /> I'm out." From the corner of my eye I notice Richard eyeing me. I turned getting him a 360 view of my dress and his face turned red. "Where are you going, Vivian?" He said it possessively.<br /> "To have passionate intercourse with a random stranger, Richard." I could feel a hysterical laugh building inside me but I manage to hold in in, smiling instead. "Its only fair that I make up for all the intercourse I've been missing out on due to your negligence. Enjoy your secretary, husband. When we're divorced, feel free to marry her because when I'm done with you, nobody will come near either of you again." I said, leaving them dumbfounded.<br /> I made a show of bending to grab my purse at the doorway, turning back to smile seductively at Richard.<br /> I giggled, standing and holding my head high as I walked out of the house to my car. I had never been insecure of my body but since Richard treated me as if I'd been invincible, and not from a lack of trying on my part, for the past two years I had been questioning myself. I mean slowly losing my self confidence as the significant other.<br /> Never again... Near death experiences had a way of making you see what really mattered.<br /> My happiness.<br /> Call me selfish or whatever. I have missed out and tonight I was going to make up for it.<br /> Nothing could make me stay to work things out at this point, I was divorcing him. With the proof I had, I would destroy him then take everything that he had. I wasn't walking away from this 10- year investment empty handed.<br /> Once, he told me that he would give me the world.<br /> But I could settle with his bank account.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.mobobooks.com/ad/TW9ib29rcy8xNzE3NDcvMjA	123910400815364	Mob001	https://facebook.com/61553314005849	54	1	424,860,717,069,014	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Mob001	120209086233000415	a.mobobooks.com	NONE	video		https://a.mobobooks.com/ad/TW9ib29rcy8xNzE3NDcvMjAyNDA1MDgxMDU0MDQvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-07 22:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441301781_816404990404932_418847975896164947_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jNusxydVz-0Q7kNvgFe_Gwm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDyA8cw_Isb6Fpj4R7ReGQ7gyuThd6q_m5_w6z0GceWdA&oe=6641EAAD	person_profile	Mob001	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440753844_1001302291459597_5360819016307670385_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=21VJA-9PxiUQ7kNvgEqh1_4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBxmwiRDRBN9QJlJOg6Vo5lquFMy04UbfWOcqNAFzGHA&oe=6641E387	3	Mob001	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,769,309	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1769610}'	No	2024-05-07 19:12	active	748	1379048279335869		For Mother's Day, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wwofpaducah">Window World of Paducah</a> is giving away a pampering treatment of your choice at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PurSculpt">PüR Sculpt Body Shaping of Paducah</a>courtesy of Window World of Paducah! To enter, Like the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wwofpaducah">Window World of Paducah</a> Facebook page, share this post, and tag three friends in the comments! The Giveaway will run until Friday, May 10th. In the meantime, check out <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PurSculpt">PüR Sculpt Body Shaping of Paducah</a>'s Facebook page to see all the awesome services they offer!<br /> We will post the Winner on our Facebook page and at no time send you a link or request information from you during the giveaway.			164320134060769	Window World of Paducah	https://facebook.com/wwofpaducah	2,009	1	410,335,431,820,494	2024-05-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0		Window World of Paducah	120210199529010268		NONE	image			2024-05-07 13:41	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108839_2800386396783036_6998275468756737186_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B1iy0XbL32MQ7kNvgFbv_wC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBF3XQS-jU_gO-NMqAdD9uJEi810_mk1A-G56j9YoAuXw&oe=6640AC91	person_profile			3	Window World of Paducah	2024-05-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,777,359	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":false,"simple_request_ratio":1,"is_bh_selenium":false,"selenium_ratio":1,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:18	active	759	742602791365448	🚨Were giving away a half Zip Ben Davis in sizes SMALL, LARGE AND XL. Blind Cerberus Tee in sizes XS, MEDIUM, LARGE AND XL. Chasing Dreams in sizes XS-XL, 3XL. Blind Cerberus Shorts in sizes SMALL - XL Bandana Shorts in sizes MEDIUM & LARGE.🚨	🎉Get ready for a Beyond Greats Give Away! We're hooking up 3 lucky winners with a chance to take home three awesome products of their choice✨. Choose from our lineup and see what goodies await you! GiveAway ends May 20th	SHOP_NOW	http://www.BeyondGreatsApparel.Store/	2378196999093317	Beyond Greats Apparel	https://facebook.com/100063535449796	72	1	851,223,340,372,092	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop Now	Beyond Greats Apparel	120209785847160767	beyondgreatsapparel.store	NONE	dco		http://www.BeyondGreatsApparel.Store/	2024-05-08 15:13	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953185_463611469362450_8550109835050854391_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_4Eg-eBAtxMQ7kNvgHKbzon&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBeXfSRmC156daZOe42g1zjPKDftCy0Osd2poSElCxtFg&oe=6641DF01	person_profile	Beyond Greats Apparel™	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441963601_476035555338954_1946027911060276677_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcEo2IFWwsgQ7kNvgG1-J96&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfASEZTy1-IhgOVuKa6VHoLbQfdxmu7UYceF68Ia6mncTQ&oe=6641F462	3	Beyond Greats Apparel	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,477	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778474}'	No	2024-05-08 18:39	active	760	3250533755079350	Six Degrees of Wellness	Our feet carry us through life. We usually don’t take that great of care of them, we just keep going. <br /> When we treat the feet, it helps release tension in the body and improve circulation. <br /> Our feet have around 7,000 nerve endings that all correspond to other specific areas of the body, including organs and the spine. By working on these nerve endings, we can improve blood, lymph and nerve flow to these specific areas. <br /> Some of the alimentary issues that can be alleviated through working on the foot are seen through the connections to the body in this photo. <br /> <br /> Mario is highly skilled in working with foot conditions so we can restore the functionality and relive the symptoms it has caused throughout the body.	CALL_NOW		2009723602653445	Six Degrees of Wellness	https://facebook.com/sixdegreesofwellness	1,330	1	453,359,973,772,544	2024-05-08 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Call now	Six Degrees of Wellness	120208688797430136		NONE	image	Neuromuscular Therapy Sessions get you back in the game.		2024-05-08 09:11	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441478546_7388996217888739_4714553207058473628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JBZdDLnH4usQ7kNvgFrQ9Z3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC-zU-IBP85M87g2YRijYAqKoZLoo1EAMo4H00Uv8Xmjw&oe=6641F510	person_profile	Six Degrees of Wellness	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441503345_1381573769220524_8645548975818681622_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yilcJSQWgNYQ7kNvgEq2uQ7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD0B4t2ktkzfZeDONuSiL2Am-IA0QXsTN7rluQrfZU32g&oe=6641E43A	3	Six Degrees of Wellness	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,774,444	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-08 15:42	active	752	1574255966475754	Gourdeaux Grand Opening + Free Concert	Join us for the official grand opening of Gourdeaux!<br /> <br /> The rooftop terrace will finally be open so come bask in the sun, listen to great music, enjoy amazing food and drinks, all while enjoying our mountain views. <br /> <br /> Local musician Micah J will be playing on the rooftop from 6-9pm.	EVENT_RSVP	https://www.facebook.com/events/1572010013700470/	248138285039837	Gourdeaux	https://facebook.com/gourdeaux.restaurant	603	1	743,453,151,292,430	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	INTERESTED	Gourdeaux	6554997409489	Gourdeaux Grand Opening + Free Concert	NONE	event	Join us for the official grand opening of Gourdeaux! The rooftop terrace will finally be open so come bask in the sun, listen to great music, enjoy amazing food and drinks, all while enjoying our mountain views. Local musician Micah J will be playing on the rooftop from 6-9pm.	https://www.facebook.com/events/1572010013700470/	2024-05-08 12:35	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441286537_1891589181341718_7957842287287946996_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_pA4fq9DMY0Q7kNvgG7DOah&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDm0YkAxsyd0MprFC5AVlueioyTFtmrdv_gE-scQWu9gg&oe=6641AE5A	person_profile			3	Gourdeaux	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,775,716	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1775278}'	No	2024-05-08 15:51	active	752	952875586340094		CUSTOM CLOSETS, MEDIA CENTERS, OFFICES, LAUNDRY / MUD / PANTRY ROOMS, GARAGES & more. Don’t overpay for maximizing & organizing your space👍. We offer quality product, best prices and quick, professional installation.<br /> Schedule your FREE consultation, design & estimate appt today.<br /> ☎️941-266-5965<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ABclosetsFlorida.com%2F&h=AT2SLoNNMu8PPLIcRAQ9gOnPFkMGTvx3UQUDfXvKFV6OHlvU2OfSFDjxuMVymnAc8txqgTXKx0PauKyIQ8z85LRgZLfjH_zWbSoUATrHYe5WZfjW8f9awaPuG90d-ZuA_EVqGigHGzYSvw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.ABclosetsFlorida.com</a>	MESSAGE_PAGE		103639132808591	AB CLOSETS FLORIDA	https://facebook.com/100094518502193	64	1	811,311,067,035,933	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Send message	AB CLOSETS FLORIDA	6550292844446		NONE	multi_images			2024-05-08 11:32	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442479410_7567146440041712_2480617182663629818_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8PViJKjcn5oQ7kNvgGpFLr6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBPp4U7dl9341xjdSOXLnaRgM9XbSoie1lyItJhwA7OmA&oe=66419F69	person_profile			3	AB CLOSETS FLORIDA	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,201	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-05-08 18:35	active	760	831516455459722	📚📚Title "Surrogate for Alpha Dom"🥰👉	“I’m sorry Ella.” My physician says gently. “I’m afraid you have very few viable eggs remaining. Frankly, I normally see these numbers in women ten or fifteen years your senior.”<br /> <br /> “What?” I murmur, not believing my ears. I’ve been trying to get pregnant for years. I’m only 30, I should have plenty of eggs left.<br /> <br /> “In terms of fertility, you have very little time left.” She continues. “If you want to conceive, you need to do so before your next cycle begins.”<br /> <br /> “My next cycle?” I repeat, my mouth hanging open in shock. I love kids more than anything, and though it might not be everyone’s ambition, I want nothing more than to be a mother.<br /> <br /> I have to get home and tell my boyfriend this news, and there’s not a moment to waste.<br /> <br /> I make it home in record time, bursting through the door and opening my mouth to call for Mike, but stopping dead in my tracks. As soon as I walk inside I see a pair of high heels and a handbag by the door – neither of which belong to me.<br /> <br /> I cock my ears towards the bedroom, and my stomach churns when I hear the unmistakable sound of moaning, accompanied by a steady thump thump thump, as the bed collides with the wall. Worse even than realizing that Mike is clearly in there with another woman, is realizing who he’s with. I know that handbag, and I know those shoes – they belong to my best friend, Kate. <br /> <br /> “Fuck, Ella is so stupid.” Mike laughs, “can you believe she actually expects me to have a baby with her?”<br /> <br /> Kate snorts, “she’s delusional. I don’t know how you put up with her for so long in the first place.”<br /> <br /> “If she wasn’t so beautiful I never would have given her the time of day.” Mike scoffs. “Thankfully daily doses of plan B kept her from ever conceiving.”<br /> <br /> “The morning after pill?” Kate asks, “how did you manage to give it to her without her realizing?”<br /> <br /> “I put it in her morning coffee.” Mike chortles, sounding far too proud of himself. <br /> <br /> My vision goes completely red as everything finally falls into place. Suddenly it’s clear why I’ve never been able to get pregnant, despite having unprotected sex multiple times a week for years. It’s even clear how I could have the eggs of a 45-year-old, if my despicable partner has been secretly feeding me emergency contraceptives every day – there’s no telling what other damage that might have done to my reproductive system. <br /> <br /> Before I can think better of it, I pull the smoke alarm on the wall, wanting to frighten and punish the pair in the bedroom so fiercely that I fear I might attack them when they emerge. Water immediately sprays down from the sprinkler system mounted to the ceiling as a shrill siren fills the air, and I hear Mike and Kate cry out in surprise. <br /> <br /> A few moments later they come rushing out of the bedroom, stopping in their tracks when they see me looming in the doorway. Mike’s eyes go comically wide, “What are you doing home so early?” The snake has the nerve to sound affronted that I surprised him, when he’s the one who’s been sneaking around behind my back for God knows how long. He seems to realize how suspicious it looks that he and Kate are standing there in their underwear and quickly adds, “Kate came to see me so we could plan a surprise for your birthday, but then we spilled coffee all over our clothes so we had to change.”<br /> <br /> Fire blazes in my veins, he must truly believe I’m an idiot if he expects me to buy such a feeble excuse. <br /> <br /> It’s a testament to their horrifically low opinion of me that they buy my act, and I vow to get my revenge one way or another. I can’t believe I wasted so many years – my best years – on this scumbag. And now he may have cost me my future too. As soon as the thought enters my head, I know I can’t afford to waste another moment on Mike, I have more important things to take care of. <br /> <br /> I make my excuses and rush across town for the second time that afternoon, running to the comforting arms of my surrogate sister, Cora. Not only did we grow up together in the orphanage, but she became an OBGYN and now works for the most exclusive sperm bank in the city. I’ve never gone to her before because I always imagined Mike and I would eventually conceive the natural way, but that clearly isn’t an option anymore. <br /> <br /> Even if I could find a man willing to have a baby with me in time, I’m not eager to trust anyone after Mike’s betrayal. I’m going to have to do this on my own, and I know Cora can help me. I don’t have much money, but I have enough savings to pay for the insemination, especially since I basically have one shot and one shot only. <br /> <br /> When I arrive, all my plans to lay out my situation for Cora clearly and concisely go out the window, because the moment I see my sister I fall to pieces. She hugs and kisses me until my tears subside, slowly extracting the story from me piece by piece. When she hears about Mike and Kate she swears up a storm, but that’s nothing compared to her reaction when I explain about my fertility. <br /> <br /> “That little shit! I’ll kill him!” She fumes, studying me with a worried expression. “Ella, if your doctor was right this means you only have one chance to conceive.”<br /> <br /> “I know.” I sniffle. “And if this is going to be my only baby, I don’t want to take any chances. I want the best donor we can find.”<br /> <br /> “Don’t you worry about that.” Cora assures me, “We’ve got donations from actors, models, scientists – it’s only the creme de la creme here.” She glances at the door and lowers her voice. “You didn’t hear it from me, but even Dominic Sinclair sent his samples here for testing.”<br /> <br /> “Dominic Sinclair? I repeat, “the billionaire?” I’ve seen the man around town, but we don’t exactly run in the same circles. He lives in the same neighborhood as my wealthy employer and often says hello to the children I nanny, but he’s always surrounded by bodyguards and is so intimidating I get goosebumps just thinking about him. <br /> <br /> “Oh my god!.” Cora slaps her hand over her mouth. “I wasn’t supposed to tell you that! I don’t know what I was thinking. Apparently he’s no stranger to fertility issues himself, and he trusted us to handle his swimmers over every other lab in the country. I’ve got his sperm in the other room at this very moment.” She frets, “But Ella you can’t tell anyone, you have to promise me.”<br /> <br /> “Of course!” I agree immediately. “I know how important confidentiality is here.”<br /> <br /> “Thank you,” Cora breathes. “Now, I’m going to give you a dossier of our clients so you can pick a donor, and once you’ve chosen we’ll get you knocked up before you can even blink.” <br /> <br /> It’s not an easy decision, but eventually I choose a handsome surgeon whose photo practically makes me swoon. Cora leaves the room only long enough to prepare the sample, and though she looks a bit flustered when she returns, she quickly and professionally completes the insemination, holding my hand when the procedure is finished. “It’s all take care of now, Ella.” She promises, “You can come back in ten days to see if it worked.”<br /> <br /> Ten days. I think dazedly. Ten days to decide my entire future.<br /> <br /> If only I’d known that by the time those ten days were up, my future would no longer belong to me – but to Dominic Sinclair himself. <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 - Be Fired<br /> <br /> Ella<br /> <br /> Six days to go. I think, staring at the date circled on my calendar. Six days until I find out if my dreams are finally going to come true… or if I have to figure out an entirely different plan for my life. <br /> <br /> I’ve thought about nothing else since Cora inseminated me last week, I’m so anxious to find out if I’m pregnant I haven’t even begun to process Mike’s betrayal. <br /> <br /> I’m trying to keep a level head, yet I can’t help but imagine my future with this new baby. Try as I might, I catch myself daydreaming about it constantly. I even find myself humming as I get ready for work in the morning. <br /> <br /> When I arrive at my employer’s estate in the most exclusive neighborhood in Moon Valley – which basically makes it the most exclusive neighborhood in the world, since Moon Valley is one of the most expensive cities on the planet – I’m immediately greeted by two little voices shouting my name in excitement. “Ella!”<br /> <br /> The next thing I know, 3-year-old Millie is hugging my legs while her older brother, Jake, wraps his arms around my middle. “Good morning love puddles!” I exclaim, returning their hugs. “Are you ready for the museum?”<br /> <br /> “Yeah!” They cheer, racing out the door without even stopping to put on coats. It takes a bit of wrangling to get them back inside and bundled up for the cold winter day, but before long we set out into the snow.<br /> <br /> Jake races ahead of Millie and I, impatient to get to the science museum and not seeming to notice that his sister’s tiny legs simply don’t move that fast. Chuckling, I lift Millie into my arms and settle her on my hip. “Goodness, you’re getting too big for this, munchkin.”<br /> <br /> “Nuh-uh,” Millie grins, “You’re justs too little.” <br /> <br /> She might have a point. At five foot one, I don’t exactly have the kind of build suited to heavy lifting. I’m in great shape, but I’ve never been particularly strong. “Smarty pants.” I tease, laughing with the little girl. <br /> <br /> When I look back towards Jake, I realize he’s stopped a few feet ahead of us. My heart skips a beat when I realize why. We’re in front of the Sinclair mansion, and its owner is currently standing in the middle of the sidewalk, his gaze searing me like a firebrand as I approach with Millie. Dominic Sinclair is just about the most handsome man I’ve ever seen, but he’s also one of the most terrifying. <br /> <br /> With dark hair and piercing green eyes, chiseled features and a body so muscular I could swoon, it doesn’t seem fair he gets to look so good and also be so rich. If I didn’t know better I might think it was his wealth or imposing height that makes him so intimidating, after all he’s at least six foot four, which means he towers over me and everyone else around him. However it’s neither of those things, there’s simply an indefinable quality about the man that I can’t put my finger on, one which screams danger. He gives off this energy that’s so raw and animalistic one forgets there’s anyone else in the room. <br /> <br /> Taking a steadying breath, I close the distance between us so Millie can say hello. When she greets him, Dominic drags his attention from me and offers her a smile so genuine that it tugs at my heartstrings. As I watch him talk to my two young charges, I remember what Cora told me about his infertility struggles. He clearly loves children, and I feel a wave of empathy for him. If anyone knows what it’s like to yearn for a family of their own, it’s me. <br /> <br /> Jake is currently showing Dominic his new toy airplane, pulling the matchbox model from his pocket and demonstrating how far it can fly. With a great heave, he sends the toy gliding through the air, only to land in the middle of the street. Before any of us can say a word, Jake races after it, right into the busy road.<br /> <br /> “Jake no, be careful!” I cry, watching him dart out into the path of an oncoming car but feeling frozen by my fear. Before I can contemplate putting Millie down to go after him, a blur of movement whirrs past my vision. I’ve never seen anyone move so fast in my life. Dominic became little more than a hazy outline of himself, chasing after Jake and pulling him out of the way just before the car slams into them. The vehicle’s tires are still screeching when Dominic sets Jake down beside me, his expression suddenly very stern. <br /> <br /> “That was very dangerous.” He scolds gently. “You should never go into the street without looking both ways first.”<br /> <br /> Jake hangs his head. “I’m sorry, I didn’t want my plane to get runned over.” <br /> <br /> “You are a million times more important than a toy.” Dominic tells him firmly, “and you scared your nanny half to death.”<br /> <br /> “I’m sorry, Ella.” Jake sniffles, looking up at me with wide eyes. <br /> <br /> “I know sweetheart, just don’t ever do that again.” I breathe, cuddling him against my side. “Thank you so much.” I say to Dominic, feeling more grateful than I can express. “I have no idea how you moved so fast! It was like something out of a superhero film.”<br /> <br /> “Must have been the adrenaline.” Dominic shrugs, giving Millie another smile before taking his leave. “Enjoy the rest of your day, and stay out of the road young man!”<br /> <br /> “Yes sir!” Jake calls after him, pocketing his airplane. “I really am sorry.” He adds to me. <br /> <br /> “It’s forgotten.” I tell him softly, though I take his hand so that he can’t run off again. <br /> <br /> “It all happened so fast.” I tell Cora later that night. “I mean the more I think about it, the more amazing it seems. One moment he was there, and the next he was gone. It was like magic.”<br /> <br /> “Thank goodness Jake is alright.” She replies, but rather than looking relieved, her face is twisted into a deep grimace.<br /> <br /> Studying my sister’s expression, I realize her grim demeanor is not just about Jake’s near miss. Something else is wrong, and I actually feel guilty for not noticing sooner. “Is everything okay?”<br /> <br /> Cora frowns, “Not really. But you’ve got so much going on right now, it’s not important.”<br /> <br /> “Cora, don’t be ridiculous.” I admonish. “What’s going on?”<br /> <br /> “Well, speaking of Dominic Sinclair,” She begins cryptically, “you know that sperm he sent to us for testing?”<br /> <br /> “Yeah,” I confirm, wondering where on earth this was going. <br /> <br /> “It’s gone missing… and I’m the last person who saw it, not to mention it was in my custody.” She explains, her voice becoming thick with emotion. “Ella, I think… I think I’m going to be fired. And if there’s an investigation I could lose my medical license.”<br /> <br /> “What?” I exclaim. “What do you mean it’s missing? A vial of sperm can’t just get up and walk away.”<br /> <br /> “I know, I think someone had to steal it, but there’s no way of knowing who’s responsible. And it looks like I’m going to have to take the blame.” She shares, her eyes shining with tears. <br /> <br /> “Cora, I can’t believe you didn’t tell me this sooner!” I lament, “They can’t fire you, it isn’t fair.”<br /> <br /> “You don’t understand, Dominic is one of our biggest donors.” Cora explains. “And he’s furious, he basically wants my head on a platter.”<br /> <br /> A week ago I might have believed there was no hope for Cora, but seeing how kind and understanding Dominic was with the kids today makes me wonder if he could really be so heartless. Surely if he understood that Cora would never be so irresponsible he’d show some leniency? I have to try and help her, I would do anything for my sister – even begging a ruthless billionaire for mercy.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 - Request<br /> <br /> Ella<br /> <br /> Three days to go.<br /> <br /> I repeat these words to myself as I walk down the street, still preoccupied with my possible pregnancy, even as I prepare to go to bat for my sister. In some ways it's a coping mechanism: I’m about to beg Dominic Sinclair to save Cora’s job, and I need a comforting thought to help me get through this. <br /> <br /> His bodyguards see me first, and I can see their mouths moving as they watch me move closer, no doubt notifying him of my presence. Approaching nervously behind Dominic, I wonder for the hundredth time if this is a mistake. Who am I to ask a favor from one of the most powerful men on the planet? Shaking myself, I tell the little voice in the back of my mind to shut up – this is for Cora. I might not be brave for myself, but I can be brave for her. <br /> <br /> “Mr. Sinclair?” I ask hesitantly, feeling my heart pound violently against my ribcage. <br /> <br /> He turns around and gazes imperiously down at me. “Yes?”<br /> <br /> “I’m Ella Reina, I nanny for Jake and Millie Graves.” I begin, gnawing on my lower lip. <br /> <br /> His dark eyes catch on my mouth, and suddenly I feel like a frightened rabbit in front of a hungry wolf. “I know who you are, Ella.” The sound of my name on his lips sends a shiver down my spine. He speaks the familiar syllables with so much purpose, as if they truly mean something to him.<br /> <br /> “Oh… well, I don’t mean to be impertinent, but I’m friends with Dr Cora Daniels…”As soon as I say her name, his expression closes off, and some unidentified emotion flashes in his eyes. <br /> <br /> “She told me she’s in trouble at work, and I know you’re one of the bank’s donors.” I improvise. “I don’t know what Cora is being accused of, but I’m sure she’s innocent. She takes her job incredibly seriously, and she would never do anything to risk her career.”<br /> <br /> “And what do you expect me to do about it?” Dominic asks ominously. I can tell he doesn’t believe my weak story, his body language has changed completely, and I can feel his rising anger vibrating in the air around us. <br /> <br /> “I just thought… I hoped that if you had any sway there, you might be able to put in a good word for her.” I finish, feeling color flood my cheeks. I’m both ashamed of myself for such a feeble attempt, but unsure how else to handle such a delicate topic. The last thing I want is to get Cora in even more trouble than before. <br /> <br /> Dominic’s jaw ticks as he watches me, and the voice in the back of my head urges me to run for it. “From what I’ve heard, your friend made a very serious mistake, and the consequences have been more than appropriate. The best thing she can do now is take responsibility for her mistakes, not sending you to do her dirty work for her.”<br /> <br /> “I – she didn’t, she doesn’t even know I’m here! I swear.” I plead. <br /> <br /> “I’ve said all I’m going to say on this matter.” Dominic declares, turning away from me and striding into his house. The door slams shut behind him, and I’m left with his various bodyguards. <br /> <br /> “You need to leave now, miss.” One of the men announces sharply. <br /> <br /> “I can’t.” I moan, “he has to understand, she’s going to lose everything!” <br /> <br /> “We’re not going to ask you again.” A second guard growls, a clear threat in his words. <br /> <br /> “Please, she’s innocent.” I beg, “you have to –” before I can say anything more, the men grab me by the arms and begin trying to lead me off the property. Feeling truly desperate, I dig in my heels, deciding that my dignity is worth Cora’s entire future. “I’m begging you, if I could just talk to Mr. Sinclair.” <br /> <br /> “You’ve already talked to him.” The first guard grumbles, “and frankly you’re lucky he was as generous to you as he was. Your friend clearly told you things she shouldn’t.”<br /> <br /> The next thing I know, they’ve thrown me off the property and onto the sidewalk so forcefully that I lose my balance, tumbling to the ground as tears spark in my eyes. The iron gates slam shut behind me, and I have no choice but to slink off before I can embarrass myself further. <br /> <br /> Of course, this was only the beginning of my misfortune. When I arrived at work the next day, I found that my keys no longer fit the locks on the front door. I knocked, overwhelmed with confusion, and a few minutes later the door swung open to reveal Jake and Millie’s furious mother. <br /> <br /> “My keys aren’t working.” I tell her, wondering why she’s glaring at me so fiercely.<br /> <br /> “They’re not meant to.” She answers coldly, “as of yesterday afternoon, your services were no longer required.”<br /> <br /> “I… you’re firing me?” I squeak, not believing my ears. “Why?”<br /> <br /> “We got a call from the neighbors.” She explains haughtily, “apparently you let Jake run into the road the other day where he was almost hit by a car! And then yesterday you were seen making a fool of yourself at Dominic Sinclair’s home – they said his bodyguards had to drag you off the grounds like a common criminal.”<br /> <br /> “That isn’t fair, that isn’t what happened!” I plead. “Jake through his toy into the road and ran after it, I didn’t let it happen, and what happened with Mr. Sinclair was a misunderstanding.”<br /> <br /> “I don’t want to hear it.” She hisses. “Now leave before I call the police.”<br /> <br /> “Please, can’t I at least say goodbye to the kids?” I request, praying she’ll grant me this one kindness.<br /> <br /> “I’m dialing.” She tells me simply, pulling her cell phone from her pocket. <br /> <br /> “No!” I raise my palms in supplication, “It’s okay, I’ll go.”<br /> <br /> For the second time this week, I find myself shamefully retreating through this opulent neighborhood with tears streaming down my face. What hurts even worse than losing my job is the fact I didn't get to explain the situation to Jake and Millie, or see them one last time. I’m sure their mother will tell them horrible things about me, despite the fact that I’ve been lovingly raising for them for the last two years.<br /> <br /> I know Dominic Sinclair is responsible for this. I don’t believe my ex-boss’s story about the neighbors for one moment. He clearly wanted to punish me, just like he’s having Cora punished. A rush of fury takes hold of me, and suddenly I wish I could punish him somehow. It’s not like me to be so vindictive, but right now it truly feels like my entire life is falling apart, and it’s partly his fault. <br /> <br /> I spent all my money on the insemination, and without a job I have almost nothing. How am I ever going to afford to have a baby now? I guarantee I’m not going to get a good reference from Jake and Millie’s mother. <br /> <br /> As if things weren’t already bad enough, when I return home I find a stack of bills in the mailbox and I don’t even recognize half the senders. I open them one by one, feeling my confusion and disbelief grow by the minute.<br /> <br /> As I look at the stores on the breakdown of charges, my suspicion grows: they’re all Mike’s favorite places. Is it possible he did this behind my back? That he’s been hiding the bills from me for months… or years? I know he’ll deny it if I confront him, which leaves me only one option. <br /> <br /> I have to call Kate. My former best friend might have betrayed me completely with her affair, but if anyone knows what Mike has been up to, it’s her. <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 - Desperation<br /> <br /> Ella<br /> <br /> My hands are shaking as I dial Kate’s number. Have I ever been this angry? If I have I certainly can’t remember it now.<br /> <br /> “Hello?” Kate answers almost immediately, using a sickly sweet tone that screams of fakeness. <br /> <br /> “Kate?” I state bluntly. “Are you with Mike right now?”<br /> <br /> There’s a pregnant pause on the other end of the line, before she weakly responds, “What? Of course not.” <br /> <br /> “Come off it Kate, do you really think I don't know about your shit?” I demand. “I’m not a complete idiot.”<br /> <br /> “Ella listen–” She begins, obviously gearing up to give me some sort of excuse. <br /> <br /> “No, I don’t even care about your little affair anymore – but I need to talk to him right now.” I declare fiercely. <br /> <br /> There’s another pause, and then Kate’s voice drops its innocent tone. “You don’t care?” She repeats, sounding truly shocked. “ You know I’m already pregnant?” <br /> <br /> I wasn’t prepared for that particular piece of news. I clench my hands into fists, feeling so furious I think I might actually break the phone with my tight grip, “And what, you think that’s some sort of victory?” I bite. <br /> <br /> “Does he know you’re pregnant?” I ask sharply, “because a man who’s so afraid of responsibility that he’d poison me for years is probably willing to do it to anyone.”<br /> <br /> “Well no, but he loves me, he would never –” She tried to explain. <br /> <br /> “He loved me too once.” I cut her off. “At least he said he did. It’s amazing how charming he can be, considering what a bastard he truly is. How do you think he’s going to support you and your child? He doesn’t even have a job.”<br /> <br /> “Of course he does!” She objects, “He just didn’t tell you about it because he didn’t want you to bleed him dry. He’s a stock broker.”<br /> <br /> “Oh Kate,” I sigh, “Poor, gullible, stupid Kate. He’s as much a stock broker as I am a wizard.”<br /> <br /> “Don’t talk to me like that! He’s got money, he lavishes it on me all the time!” She insists.<br /> <br /> “With fraudulent credit cards he took out in my name!” I shout, losing my temper completely.<br /> <br /> “What?” She squeaks. <br /> <br /> “That’s right. I’ve only just found out – he’s completely bankrupted me. I’m calling the police and if I were you, I’d check your own credit rating immediately, because I’d be willing to be you’re next.” I snap.<br /> <br /> “No,” she repeats weakly, “you’re wrong, it’s different with me.”<br /> <br /> My voice is getting thick with emotion now, but I can’t help it. “And frankly I don’t really care what happens to you Kate, but if you’re really pregnant then your baby deserves better than to be raised in a homeless shelter, and that’s exactly where Mike will land you.”<br /> <br /> I hang up before I start crying, not giving her a chance to respond. Why did I buy his lies about looking for work for so long? He crushed me little by little, all the while pretending to be so nice, and I let it happen. <br /> <br /> Never again. I decide. I won’t ever let myself be fooled that way again. <br /> <br /> I still want to get my revenge on Mike, but first I’ve got to try and salvage what’s left of my life. I have to go to the police and see if I can resolve these financial issues… I can’t have a baby if I’m bankrupt, and I can only pray the police will help. <br /> <br /> ________________________<br /> <br /> “I’m very sorry Miss. Reina, but if your ex-partner has left the area, there’s not much we can do about this.” The police officer breaks this news to me about as gently as he might smash an ant beneath his boot. “I’ll give you the police report to send to the credit card company, but that’s the most help you’re going to get from us.”<br /> <br /> Anger fills me to the brim. I guarantee he’d never treat my case with so little consideration or respect if I wasn’t an impoverished nanny. If I was a wealthy man like Dominic Sinclair, he’d be fawning at my feet, offering to go to any lengths to solve my problems. I storm out of the station before I can lose my temper and verbally assault the man, immediately calling the credit card companies. <br /> <br /> One by one they crush my hopes, telling me in no uncertain terms that unless a culprit is arrested in my case, I’ll be held responsible for the charges. <br /> <br /> As I hang up on the final call, I can feel the earth crumbling beneath my feet. How did it come to this? I literally have nothing. No one will hire me without a recommendation from my previous employer, which means I won’t be able to pay rent or keep food on the table. Normally I might turn to Cora in such a time, but I can’t burden her with this when she’s in the same boat. <br /> <br /> Tomorrow I’ll finally find out whether or not I’m pregnant, and up until now the strange sensation I’ve been experiencing the last few days has been a comfort and source of hope. I don’t know how to explain it: it’s as if I’m suddenly different somehow – even though I can’t see any changes, I just have this intense knowing that I’m no longer the same woman I was a week ago. <br /> <br /> I thought it was a sign the insemination worked, but now I’m praying that it’s my imagination going overboard. <br /> <br /> At first I try to distract myself, turning on the TV and freezing when I see Dominic Sinclair on the news talking about all his good will initiatives in the community. “When our work is finished, the Moon Valley children’s home will be a place of love and community, motivated to find the best homes for every child in need. Our initiative not only ensures that the permanent residents in the home have the best possible conditions, but that there is continuous follow up with children placed with adoptive families to ensure they thrive in their new homes.”<br /> <br /> So much for the supposed philanthropist, I think bitterly. Turning a blind eye to the lives he’s selfishly ruining all the while pretending to be a friend of the downtrodden. A week ago I might have been touched by such a broadcast. I grew up in an orphanage just like the one he’s describing, and I know just how terrible the conditions can be. Now however, I see nothing but his hypocrisy. Cora was an orphan too, she didn’t do anything wrong – where is his compassion for her? Clearly it’s only for the TV cameras. It’s a shame. He’s very convincing… then again, so was Mike. <br /> <br /> Of course Mike was never as handsome as Dominic Sinclair, nor did he ever have his charisma or imposing presence. I don’t know if I’ve ever met anyone like him. Even while he was refusing to help me, scolding me and having me thrown out the door, part of me was still taken in by his handsome features and pure magnetism. <br /> <br /> Shaking myself, I turn the TV off. What the hell is wrong with me? The man is a heartless billionaire and I’m still sitting here mooning over him like a silly schoolgirl. <br /> <br /> I end up going to bed early, trying not to think about tomorrow. Of course, I still lie awake late into the night – I know what it means to grow up an orphan, and I can’t countenance bringing a child into the world just to abandon it to that bleak existence. The more my life unravels, the more stark my options become. <br /> <br /> If I am pregnant… Am I going to abort the child? Even though it’s what I’ve wanted my entire life!<br /> <br /> Chapter 5 - Pregnancy Test<br /> <br /> Ella<br /> <br /> “No, I understand.” I murmur into the phone. “Thanks for listening at least.”<br /> <br /> I wearily hang up the line, burying my head in my hands. I spent all morning calling in every favor and loan I possibly could, throwing my dignity right out the window to beg my friends and acquaintances in my time of need. <br /> <br /> I’ve never thought of myself as a proud woman, but begging this way was more of a challenge than I could have imagined. <br /> <br /> I only wish I could help Cora as well as myself. She’s still waiting to hear if she’ll be fired, and while she’s not supposed to be handling any samples, she got permission to do my tests this afternoon. After all, I’ve already been inseminated, so her supervisor didn’t see any risk of further negligence.<br /> <br /> Still, I’m far from excited when I walk through the front doors of the sperm bank. Ten days ago I was heartsore but optimistic for the future, yearning for a baby more than anything else in the world. Now I’m dreading the exam. <br /> <br /> However my trepidation soon gives way to surprise, because as soon as I enter the facility I have the strangest feeling that Dominic Sinclair is near. It takes me a while to actually find him, behind closed doors with Cora’s bosses in a luxurious, glass-walled conference room, but I don’t have the faintest idea how I knew he was present. I also don’t understand why I feel drawn to him: after all, he’s ruined both my sister’s and my own life. I shouldn’t be excited to see him. <br /> <br /> It was dumb luck that I stumbled across his path, the conference room is on the way to Cora’s office, but I find myself stopping to observe the meeting inside. I’m struck speechless when I lay eyes on him. Is it possible that he’s gotten more attractive since the last time I saw him? It was already unfair that somebody that powerful and intelligent could be so handsome, but now it truly just feels like being kicked while I’m down. The bastard has a heart of stone, and still the universe has rained endless gifts upon him while people like Cora and I have nothing. <br /> <br /> Shaking myself out of my trance, I continue down the hall, though I feel the weight of dark eyes on my back as I retreat. Cora has clearly been crying when I arrive. Her eyes are red and her cheeks splotchy, though she tries to hide it. <br /> <br /> “Hey.” I greet her gently, wrapping her up in a hug. She leans into me, squeezing tight and lingering far longer than she usually would. “Is there any news?”<br /> <br /> “Sinclair is in there finalizing it all now. I’m going to be given formal termination notice this afternoon.” She shares, sniffling slightly. <br /> <br /> “I’m so sorry, honey.” I croon, rubbing her back. <br /> <br /> “It’s okay.” She lies, pulling away. “How are you hanging in there?”<br /> <br /> “Not very well.” I confess. “I’m sort of dreading this, to be honest.”<br /> <br /> “It’s amazing how fast things can change, huh?” She asks, looking as though she might burst into tears. “I mean, what are we going to do, Elle?” <br /> <br /> “Well figure it out.” I promise. “We’ve been in tight spots before.” I remind her, “remember the summer we slept in boxes on the street after we ran away from the orphanage?”<br /> <br /> “Yeah,” She nods with a sad smile. “But it’s winter now, I don’t think we’ll last long in the elements. And you weren’t pregnant then.”<br /> <br /> “Yeah well, if I’m pregnant now….” I can’t look her in the eyes as I say this, “I don’t think I’m going to stay that way.”<br /> <br /> “What?” Cora exclaims, looking horrified. “But this is your only chance! And we aren’t completely hopeless, you’ve got time to try to figure out a plan B.”<br /> <br /> That phrase alone reminds me of Mike, and I realize I haven’t shared my latest news with Cora. “I can’t afford a baby even if I do find a job. I’m going to be paying off my debts for years to come.” I share, filling her in on the details of Mike and Kate’s latest betrayal. <br /> <br /> “I can’t believe this!” She bursts out when I’m finished. “It just isn’t fair, Ella! I mean, I thought we paid our dues, I thought we were done with suffering. After everything we’ve been through, we deserve a better future than this! You deserve to be a mom – no one loves children more than you do.”<br /> <br /> “And you deserve to be a doctor.” I reply. “You worked so hard.”<br /> <br /> “I still don’t think you should give up yet.” She frowns. “You can terminate the pregnancy up until the end of the first trimester. It would be a tragedy if you aborted it, then pulled off a miracle and it turned out you could have kept it. Don’t take that risk. Keep the baby until the very last moment.”<br /> <br /> “I don’t think miracles happen to people like me.” I remark softly. “Besides that seems kind of like it’s own form of torture – the longer I carry the baby the more attached I’m going to get. I don’t want this to hurt any worse than it has to.”<br /> <br /> “It’s going to hurt no matter what.” Cora reasons, “You ought to give yourself a chance – keep the door open. Don’t give up hope completely.”<br /> <br /> “Let’s just find out if I have to make that decision in the first place.” I state, changing the subject. “I may not even be pregnant.” Yet even as I say it, I can feel in my heart that I am. <br /> <br /> “Okay.” Cora agrees, pulling a sterile cup wrapped in plastic from one of her cabinets. “You know what to do.”<br /> <br /> I take the cup and quickly duck into the bathroom to provide a urine sample, returning it to her almost immediately. I pace back and forth across the office as Cora runs the tests. “Well?” I press, seeing the results pop up on her computer screen. <br /> <br /> She offers me a sad smile. “Congratulations little sister, you’re going to have a baby.”<br /> <br /> I told myself that I wouldn’t fall to pieces no matter the results, but as soon as the words are out of her mouth I’m crying. I’ve been waiting to hear those words for years and was beginning to think I never would. It’s both unimaginable joy, and unimaginable pain. I never knew my heart could hold such conflicting emotions at the same time, let alone in such extremes. “Really?”<br /> <br /> “Really.” Cora confirms, hugging me. “Come on, let’s do an ultrasound. You can hear the heartbeat.”<br /> <br /> “Isn’t it too early?” I squeak. <br /> <br /> “Just one of the benefits of being at the finest lab in the country.” Cora quips, the words bittersweet on her tongue. “Our technology is years ahead of what’s available in public hospitals.”<br /> <br /> Climbing onto the raised exam table, I lay back and lift my top, not bothering to change into a gown or cover my clothes with a sheet, I simply expose my flat belly as Cora wheels in an ultrasound on a cart. Within minutes the machine is emitting a strange whoosh woosh woosh, and Cora squirts a dollop of jelly on my tummy. She pressed the wand to my skin, and before long a tiny heartbeat sounds – making me cry all over again.<br /> <br /> However Cora is frowning deeply. “This is so strange, the baby seems awfully large, but we tested you at your last visit to be sure you weren’t already pregnant.”<br /> <br /> “What does that mean?” I ask anxiously. “Is the father just a big guy?”<br /> <br /> “I don’t just mean size – I mean development.” Cora purses her lips and furrows her brows as she studies the images, suddenly looking very worried. She’s whispering now, speaking to herself more than to me. “It doesn’t look human… but that can’t be… it’s not possible.”<br /> <br /> “What are you talking about?” I inquire, “How can you tell? Isn’t it just a tiny blob?”<br /> <br /> “As I said, our tech is state of the art. It doesn’t just highlight shapes - it analyzes the molecular structure.” Before she can say another word, the door bursts open, startling us both. To my shock and horror, Dominic Sinclair is standing in the doorframe, glaring at us as if we’ve done something terrible. “What’s the meaning of this?” He demands.<br /> <br /> “What’s the meaning of this? I repeat in shock, “what’s the meaning of you barging into a private exam?!”<br /> <br /> “Because,” He declares fiercely, and I swear his eyes are almost glowing with rage. “I can smell my pup.”<br /> <br /> Chapter 6 - He's A Werewolf<br /> <br /> “Your pup?” I parrot, realizing I must sound like an idiot the way I keep repeating him – but it’s all too strange and surreal. I feel like I’m having a dream......<br /> __________________<br /> <br /> Click to READ more 👉👉 Title: Surrogate for Alpha Dom	LEARN_MORE	https://page.joyreadings.com/h5-book-share-custom4	106077262240533	The novel	https://facebook.com/100085523883301	19,182	3	893,116,842,268,511	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	The novel	120204314137930310	page.joyreadings.com	NONE	video		https://page.joyreadings.com/h5-book-share-custom4.html?lang=en&id=5747&brand=2&app=0&ppid=1637&pid=FBW2A&campaign=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&adset_id=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&ad_id=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&utm_source=FBW2A&utm_medium=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&utm_campaign=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&utm_term=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&ori_campaign_id=120204262467030310&ori_adset_id=120204262467220310&ori_ad_id=120204262468280310	2023-12-27 03:14	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/415194450_735830854774959_6346220921795589417_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NAHPguWruroQ7kNvgHbZqVh&_nc_oc=AdjXL4VLMEo0U-EmIkoM2WPP4zcVNDOC_JQ6BioJH4LoxzEZw2s91VsJ5dE4oZ_dM6Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB7huwfjirOD7FUQ2yCBH3yq_ku9jRzWt2bbBnXXKHPqA&oe=6641D408	person_profile	The novel	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/415205438_366853606031194_7678051728342973407_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RuCYLu4iElQQ7kNvgHqhk48&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7DzLTwhDpheKcOX9zRMX2hexLgv1p1Rtatn5-fcG4Tw&oe=6641CC9F	3	The novel	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,298	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778293}'	No	2024-05-08 18:37	active	760	1449199105803736	Click to Read More Chapters👉	Chapter 1<br /> After winning yet another lawsuit, Jasmine Black was having a drink with her colleagues at the bar.<br /> <br /> She was hammered when she noticed her rival, Diego Cooper, sitting at the opposite table.<br /> <br /> Diego was a prominent lawyer worldwide. He was regarded as the industry's formidable devil. He had never once lost a case.<br /> <br /> He's also the bastard that Jasmine had pursued from high school until she graduated from university.<br /> <br /> She had pursued him for seven long years, yet he remained indifferent and heartless toward her.<br /> <br /> Jasmine abruptly sprang up from her seat and staggered toward Diego. With one flop, she sat straight on his lap.<br /> <br /> She grabbed his necktie with one hand while resting the other against his toned abs. <br /> <br /> "Diego Cooper… Have you become bad in bed?"<br /> <br /> Diego didn't stop her as he reclined against the back of the couch. Instead, he stared at her wordlessly.<br /> <br /> "You're not answering… So, does that mean… it's true?"<br /> <br /> Something flickered in his eyes as he quickly removed her hand. <br /> <br /> "Don't you care about your reputation anymore? All your colleagues are here." <br /> <br /> His deep voice was slightly hoarse.<br /> <br /> Their colleagues gaped at them in disbelief, impressed by Jasmine's bravery.<br /> <br /> "What reputation? I had mine ruined a long time ago because of you!" a drunk Jasmine grumbled before biting his neck.<br /> <br /> All her high school and university classmates knew she spent a lot of money to win Diego's heart, only to fail miserably in the end.<br /> <br /> After graduating from university, she was crestfallen and went abroad. She swore she would one day beat Diego in something he was best at.<br /> <br /> When she returned to the country six months ago, she was already a famous lawyer with a winning streak dating back to the beginning of her career.<br /> <br /> She was beginning to drawl.<br /> <br /> While wearing a frown, Diego pulled the back of her collar to create distance between them. <br /> <br /> His eyes were dark and indecipherable. <br /> <br /> "You've drank too much, Jasmine. Have someone take you home."<br /> <br /> "No! I want you to take me home!" <br /> <br /> She yanked his necktie. Her imperative tone sounded slightly coquettish.<br /> <br /> He removed her hands from his tie so he could loosen it. Then, he grabbed her by the arm before walking outside without saying a word.<br /> <br /> Their colleagues' eyes widened.<br /> <br /> Everyone in the legal and political world knew Jasmine and Diego were on bad terms. <br /> <br /> They tried to figure out the scene they had just witnessed.<br /> <br /> When they reached the car, Jasmine wrapped her arms around Diego's neck and planted a kiss on his neck, sending a slight tremor down his spine.<br /> <br /> He held her by the waist and shoved her away. <br /> <br /> "This is sexual harassment, Jasmine Black. Do you think I won't sue you for this?" <br /> <br /> His tone rose.<br /> <br /> "If you're really bad in bed, then forget it. I'll just find someone by the street to release my sexual frustration."<br /> <br /> She then ignored him and waved at a passing man. <br /> <br /> "Hey, hot guy! Wanna get a room together?" <br /> <br /> Jasmine seemed serious about the invitation.<br /> <br /> Diego's expression darkened as he watched her antics. He pressed her waving hand down and opened the car door to shove her in.<br /> <br /> Then, he drove the car back home.<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> The next morning, Jasmine woke up and turned her head stiffly. <br /> <br /> Diego was sitting next to her, smoking. He appeared laid-back.<br /> <br /> Despite his charming looks, he had a dominating and intimidating presence about him.<br /> <br /> The grogginess that clouded her mind disappeared in a heartbeat.<br /> <br /> Did she finally manage to have sex with him after almost seven years?<br /> <br /> "Morning, Mr. Cooper," she said.<br /> <br /> Jasmine propped herself up, returning to her professional composure as a lawyer.<br /> <br /> "Wash up. Someone will serve breakfast in a while." <br /> <br /> Diego discarded his cigarette into the ashtray. <br /> <br /> "I'll forgo it. I have a client to meet in the morning." <br /> <br /> Aloofness seeped into her voice.<br /> <br /> She lifted the sheets and was about to get out of bed when an idea crossed her mind. <br /> <br /> She suddenly grabbed her phone from the headboard, smiling mischievously. <br /> <br /> "How about a picture for memory's sake?"<br /> <br /> Before Diego could say anything, Jasmine quickly launched the camera app on her phone and lay her head against his sturdy chest.<br /> <br /> She flashed a triumphant smile, raised the phone high, and took a selfie of her and Diego.<br /> <br /> The picture was rather suggestive as they were naked and were only covered with a blanket. <br /> <br /> She sent it to her best friend alongside a voice message. <br /> <br /> "Becky Dobbs, tell those people to wire the money to me. I won the bet. Oh, and the payment should include ten years of interest."<br /> <br /> Since she had lost her reputation, she thought she should make some money to make up for it.<br /> <br /> The shrewd Diego caught the point of the message. <br /> <br /> He asked with a smirk, "The bet was about me?"<br /> <br /> Turning around, she plastered herself to his chest while drawing circles on his abs with her finger. She couldn't resist it.<br /> <br /> Jasmine looked at Diego with beady eyes. <br /> <br /> "Why are you so surprised? I thought you've known all this while. Oh, and about what happened last night, it was consensual. It was simply an adult game. You don't have to take any responsibility."<br /> <br /> She felt the years she spent pursuing him were a loop of disappointment and heartbreaks. Continuing to be his devoted admirer would be a foolish decision.<br /> <br /> Sleeping and then dumping Diego had always been on her wishlist.<br /> <br /> "You're wild, Ms. Black." <br /> <br /> Chuckling, he glanced at her and pushed her away.<br /> <br /> Due to his handsome looks, a mere glance from him was enough to paralyze her with a tingling sensation.<br /> <br /> Jasmine thought Diego was a bastard who was good at seducing.<br /> <br /> His push caused her to fall backward, but she managed to support herself with both palms on the bed.<br /> <br /> Her tress cascaded over her shoulders, revealing her exposed body and seductive curves. <br /> <br /> Jasmine had a stunning body.<br /> <br /> Diego's eyes studied her up and down. The fact that his heart skipped a beat made him frown.<br /> <br /> "Did you sleep with me because you might like me?" <br /> <br /> She casually brushed her slightly curled hair. Picking up her shirt and bra, she began to take her time to dress herself.<br /> <br /> "Do you think that's even possible?" <br /> <br /> He cast a cold glance at her.<br /> <br /> Diego's answer didn't surprise her one bit. Regardless, it didn't bother her because she was determined to be the one who dumped him this time.<br /> <br /> Right then, her phone began ringing from the flood of incoming messages. Jasmine checked her phone. They were from Becky. <br /> <br /> "Did you really sleep with Mr. Cooper? How? This is too sudden. You failed to take him down in those ten years, though." <br /> <br /> Becky was more excited than Jasmine was.<br /> <br /> Smiling, Jasmine quickly replied, "I'll feed you the details later."<br /> <br /> Diego's phone kept ringing as well. He grabbed it and opened his WhatsApp. <br /> <br /> His high school and university group chats exploded with texts. <br /> <br /> Everyone was mind-blown by the news. <br /> <br /> "Jasmine Black had sex with Diego Cooper?"<br /> <br /> Jasmine's body stiffened when she saw the message in the group chat. She didn't expect it to have such a huge impact.<br /> <br /> Fortunately, she was close with the people in the group chats. There were only about 30 people in each group, which wasn't many.<br /> <br /> She replied to the message, "It was just a one-night stand. Those who had made a bet with me—you know who you are—wire the money to me."<br /> <br /> Her response elicited a faint smile from Diego, but his eyes reflected coldness as he watched her.<br /> <br /> She glimpsed at him—that alone was enough to cause a chill to run down her spine.<br /> <br /> "I bet you can't sleep with him for a second time. I'm betting double the amount on this." <br /> <br /> Their university friends copied and pasted the exact message.<br /> <br /> The situation was crazy.<br /> <br /> "Not only can I sleep with him twice, but thrice. Players, be prepared with your money!" she texted back with gusto.<br /> <br /> Backing off? Not a chance! She'd never do that to embarrass herself.<br /> <br /> The smile on Diego's face widened, but he looked like he was going to devour her alive.<br /> <br /> His best friend, Jesse Taylor, sent a text message. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Cooper sent a lawyer to prison a few days ago. Mark my words—it was a 20-year sentence! Good luck, Ms. Black."<br /> <br /> Jasmine read that message and looked at Diego, who began smoking on the bed again. She couldn't read his emotions because the cloud of smoke covered his features.<br /> <br /> Arching her brow, she replied to Jesse, "Oh really? I'm looking forward to the day when I meet Mr. Cooper in court."<br /> <br /> She then shifted her attention away from the chat, smiling and waving at Diego. <br /> <br /> "I should get going, Mr. Cooper. Thanks for the hard work last night. Get some rest."<br /> <br /> Despite his faint smile, Diego suddenly pinched the cigarette between his fingers.<br /> Chapter 2<br /> In the afternoon, Jasmine noticed Diego as soon as she entered the cafe.<br /> <br /> The surprise was brief as she immediately wore a professional smile. <br /> <br /> "What are the odds, Mr. Cooper?"<br /> <br /> "Zero. I'm simply granting your wish." <br /> <br /> Smiling, he placed his cup of coffee on the table before reclining on the couch with his legs crossed. <br /> <br /> "Wow… Thank you for your service?" <br /> <br /> She gladly took a seat opposite him.<br /> <br /> Jasmine's client was a university friend who was also in the group chat they shared. <br /> <br /> The case was about a prestigious family in the city that went bankrupt due to internal conflicts.<br /> <br /> Diego's expression remained the same. He didn't respond to her remarks either.<br /> <br /> "Be a man, Fabian Dawson. We divorced three years ago, and you want half of my money?" Daisy Freeman, dressed in a sexy red dress, growled at Fabian.<br /> <br /> "You've only managed to come this far because of the huge sum of money I spent on you. Don't you even feel guilty about it?" he questioned.<br /> <br /> Fabian needed the money to rise again.<br /> <br /> "Why must I—"<br /> <br /> Before Daisy could finish her thought, Jasmine crossed her legs and interrupted, "If you guys think a fight can get you somewhere, what's the use of hiring a lawyer?"<br /> <br /> The dispute stopped. <br /> <br /> Jasmine looked at Diego indifferently. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Cooper, as you know, although it was signed, the divorce agreement won't be effective as long as the divorce procedures have not proceeded. The law states that a divorced couple should split matrimonial assets in half. The same goes for the debts."<br /> <br /> Diego asked, "Mr. Dawson, is it true that you had an affair while still married and had sex with your mistress many times?"<br /> <br /> Fabian smirked and shook his leg, completely unbothered. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Jasmine turned to look at Fabian in surprise. He hadn't told her any of that.<br /> <br /> Fabian blurted, "Fuck! What kind of man—"<br /> <br /> Jasmine gave him a look and averted the question.<br /> <br /> "Evidence, Mr. Cooper?"<br /> <br /> Jasmine had clearly informed Fabian before this that the conversation would be recorded whenever the lawyers met. <br /> <br /> She wondered if he was out of his mind as he almost let this tongue slip.<br /> <br /> Daisy huffed, "I witnessed him get a room with a model."<br /> <br /> "Ms. Freeman, did Mr. Cooper not explain what evidence is?" <br /> <br /> Jasmine smiled, relieved at the thought that the other party didn't have proof.<br /> <br /> Fabian snorted. <br /> <br /> "I have a mistress? You're talking as though you don't have a boy toy. I also wonder how many businessmen you have slept with all these years."<br /> <br /> "It was after we signed the divorce agreement that I—" <br /> <br /> Diego glimpsed at the foolish Daisy before interrupting her, "Please show the evidence before you speak."<br /> <br /> As mentioned at the beginning of the conversation, the divorce agreement was null and void. How could Daisy admit that she had a boy toy? <br /> <br /> Was she trying to divorce without getting a single penny out of it? Diego thought Daisy was an idiot.<br /> <br /> Jasmine's judging eyes landed on Fabian, who knew that his wife had someone on the side but didn't gather any evidence about it.<br /> <br /> She massaged her forehead, fully aware of the road ahead.<br /> <br /> Diego questioned, "Mr. Dawson, you and my client have been living separately for three years. You didn't fulfill your duty as a husband. What have you been doing all these years?"<br /> <br /> "I—"<br /> <br /> Jasmine shrewdly replied, "He has been working hard to give Ms. Freeman a better life. However, his legal wife withholds the matrimonial assets. He doesn't have any money while going through a rough patch. Ultimately, his business announced its bankruptcy. If this case is brought to court, don't think of taking a single penny, Mr. Cooper."<br /> <br /> Diego retorted, "Is this a threat, Ms. Black? His bankruptcy has nothing to do with my client. You can look into it." <br /> <br /> He looked at Daisy, who also didn't share the information with him.<br /> <br /> This was the first time he was going against Jasmine at work, and it was a surprising case at that.<br /> <br /> "Speaking of, you can also look into this, Mr. Cooper. My client bought his wife multiple houses and luxury cars worth millions of dollars altogether. Ms. Freeman didn't fork up a single penny before and after his business went bankrupt.<br /> <br /> "Controlling the matrimonial assets, refusing to pay off shared debts, and having a male companion… Mr. Cooper, you and your client should seriously consider splitting the assets equally or taking this matter to court." <br /> <br /> Jasmine slightly leaned forward, smiling at Diego.<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> "Before the divorce is settled, keep those women at arm's length. Don't give Diego or your wife any other ammunition. Also, eliminate any records, pictures, messages of hotel room bookings, and whatnot," Jasmine reminded Fabian while driving the car.<br /> <br /> "Got it." <br /> <br /> Fabian was deeply impressed by her. <br /> <br /> The thought of meeting Daisy to obtain funds was humiliating to him, but the way Jasmine bombarded the opposing party gave him confidence. <br /> <br /> He was all puffed up.<br /> <br /> "Is your wife living with her boy toy?" Jasmine inquired.<br /> <br /> "Yeah, it's been three years." <br /> <br /> He crossed his arms, snorting.<br /> <br /> "That's good news for us." <br /> <br /> She smirked as she suddenly pulled over by the road. <br /> <br /> "Get back home and install a surveillance camera at her place. Tell her that it's to… prevent burglary."<br /> <br /> "I don't think she'll let me in." <br /> <br /> The couple had been living separately for three years. Daisy had bought that mansion herself.<br /> <br /> "Idiot! You're still her husband on paper. Is it wrong to return to your home? Plus, she should currently be with Diego."<br /> <br /> "Alright, I'll go now." <br /> <br /> Fabian thought, "Don't blame me for this, Daisy. I've treated you so well and spent so much money on you. How could you be this cruel to me!"<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> That night, Jasmine received a call from Fabian after she finished showering. <br /> <br /> "Diego is going to sue me for bribing him!" <br /> <br /> His words came out in a rush.<br /> <br /> Jasmine rolled her eyes. <br /> <br /> "Well, did you do that?"<br /> <br /> "He called me at night and told me he found that model. I was so scared. I met him, hoping he would cut me some slack for old times' sake. I even gave him a check of one million dollars—"<br /> <br /> "You idiot! That's a trap! He could bring a woman over and accuse you of having slept with her before, but no one would buy it as long as he doesn't have evidence. <br /> <br /> "Oh Lord, someone like you will surely lose everything before you take the divorce case to the courthouse. An idiotic teammate is definitely more harmful than a powerful opponent." <br /> <br /> Jasmine crossed her arms and shook her head.<br /> <br /> "Yes, yes, yes, I'm an idiot. You gotta save me, Jasmine! That jerk, Diego, doesn't even care that we were once friends. Gosh, I'm livid!"<br /> <br /> "You can be sentenced up to 15 years for bribing a lawyer. It's almost impossible to be announced not guilty of this charge. How am I supposed to help you?"<br /> <br /> "W-Well, I don't mind going to prison. But the main thing is, your first loss will be because of Diego! Not only is your reputation at stake, but other lawyers and your friends will never let you live it down!" <br /> <br /> Fabian attempted to earn her pity.<br /> <br /> Jasmine paced back and forth in her room while reminding him seriously, "I repeat, do not meet your wife's lawyer without my presence. Think before you speak whenever you talk to her. Don't fall for her schemes. Got it?"<br /> <br /> "I'll keep that in mind. But how are you going to—" <br /> <br /> He was about to ask her about the possible bribery lawsuit, but the call was terminated.<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> The next morning, Jasmine headed to Cooper, Taylor & Associates.<br /> <br /> The receptionist asked, "Ms. Black, what—" <br /> <br /> "I'm Mr. Cooper's girlfriend," blurted Jasmine without stopping in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The employees were stunned to see her there. Rumors about her and Diego had been circling within the law firm for the past two days.<br /> <br /> She read the sign on the door before knocking and opening it without waiting for Diego's signal.<br /> <br /> Diego, who was reading some documents, looked up at her expressionlessly.<br /> <br /> "Is there anything, Ms. Black?" <br /> <br /> He sounded aloof.<br /> <br /> Jasmine's hair was let loose over her black professional attire. Her three-inch black high heels were supposed to add more professionalism to her appearance, but it made her look alluring instead.<br /> <br /> She walked up next to him before flopping onto his office table seductively. With one hand, she easily grabbed his necktie.<br /> <br /> "Giving me the cold treatment already? We just slept together two days ago, though."<br /> Chapter 3<br /> Diego snatched back his tie from Jasmine's hands while chuckling. <br /> <br /> "You must be here because of Fabian's bribery."<br /> <br /> "Of course not. I'm here to… talk about our relationship, not work." <br /> <br /> She pulled at his necktie again, playing with it while faking a smile. <br /> <br /> "You want me to sleep with you again? So you can brag about it in the group and rake in big money?" <br /> <br /> He slapped her hand away.<br /> <br /> He crossed his arms to lean against the back of his chair and arched a brow at her.<br /> <br /> Jasmine slid down from the table to sit on his lap. The transition she made was smooth.<br /> <br /> Her warm breath brushed against his ears as she giggled. <br /> <br /> "Honestly, I was too drunk to remember what happened that night. I kind of want to relive it again…"<br /> <br /> Diego's ears turned red. He pushed Jasmine and stared at her. He thought she was shameless. <br /> <br /> "Uphold your dignity, Jasmine Black."<br /> <br /> "I've misplaced it. Mind finding it for me?" <br /> <br /> Jasmine rested against his chest lazily. <br /> <br /> Her finger traced along his perfect neckline. <br /> <br /> "I never knew that you were this pretentious, Mr. Cooper. You were so mean that night, as if it was your first time seeing a woman. Why are you pretending to be free from lust now?"<br /> <br /> The cheeky movement of her finger gave him a faint jolt of electricity, and he slapped her hand away. <br /> <br /> "What are you trying to imply right now? Who was the one who said that it was a mere game so heartlessly that day?"<br /> <br /> Jasmine wished she could slap herself—no, Fabian—at this moment. She felt that it was all that idiot's fault.<br /> <br /> Had it not been for him, she wouldn't have needed to flatter Diego.<br /> <br /> "Why take it to the heart when those were mere heartless words? Since we've slept together, why don't we just date?" <br /> <br /> She took shamelessness to a whole new level.<br /> <br /> "Sorry, but I don't date heartless people. Torturing myself is not my thing." <br /> <br /> Diego shoved Jasmine off his lap.<br /> <br /> Jasmine gnashed her teeth in rage. How dare he claim that dating her was torture!<br /> <br /> It took everything in her to build up her reputation and the confidence to stand before him with pride.<br /> <br /> But why must she debase herself for him again?<br /> <br /> She thought Diego was one merciless and stubborn man.<br /> <br /> Given her pretty looks, voluptuous body, elite profession, and background, men lined up to be her partner.<br /> <br /> Yet, she had to work hard to wear him down.<br /> <br /> She stood up straight and massaged her forehead to regain her cool momentarily. <br /> <br /> Then, she made a graceful turn and crossed her arms, smiling. <br /> <br /> "Are you sure you want that, jerk?"<br /> <br /> Diego ignored her and pressed a button on his landline. <br /> <br /> "Callie, come in and escort Ms. Black to make payment."<br /> <br /> He pointed and glanced at the door. <br /> <br /> "Ms. Black, I charge ten thousand dollars per consultation hour. Please make the payment outside."<br /> <br /> She nodded before suddenly removing and tossing her black coat onto his table. She strode toward the door while unbuttoning her shirt and ruffling her hair. <br /> <br /> "It's only ten thousand dollars. Don't worry. I will pay and ask your secretary to… buy something."<br /> <br /> Diego finally showed traces of uneasiness at her actions. He sprang up from his seat and ran over to the door.<br /> <br /> When she opened the door, he quickly slammed it shut again by caging her against it. <br /> <br /> His eyelids fluttered at the pleasing view before him, and he looked away. <br /> <br /> "Why are you here?"<br /> <br /> Jasmine scanned the office, concerned that he would record the conversation secretly. After all, no one knew what he had up his sleeves, considering how cautious he was.<br /> <br /> Daisy was at a disadvantage, which was why Diego set Fabian up. <br /> <br /> If Jasmine fell for Diego's trap, too, she would lose the case and be sent to prison. She would be the joke of the century if that came to pass.<br /> <br /> "I'm here to talk about us." <br /> <br /> She flashed him a smile, attempting to have him wrapped around her finger first.<br /> <br /> Right then, the door suddenly opened. Callie turned her head only to see the duo engaged in an intimate scene. Her jaw almost fell to the floor.<br /> <br /> Diego, who wielded impactful influence in the political and business worlds, always prioritized work over anything else.<br /> <br /> His methods were ruthless and shrewd. Nothing could make him bat an eye, not even a murder.<br /> <br /> On the subject of chivalry and love, he didn't have the emotional intelligence for either of those.<br /> <br /> Callie couldn't believe what she was witnessing.<br /> <br /> "Get out," Diego instructed Callie.<br /> <br /> "Y-Yes. Don't worry, Mr. Cooper. I saw absolutely nothing." <br /> <br /> Callie covered her eyes.<br /> <br /> When he was about to close the door, Jasmine deliberately called out to her. <br /> <br /> "Don't leave so quickly. Could you help us buy something we really need right now?"<br /> <br /> She gave her a meaningful look. <br /> <br /> "Huh?" <br /> <br /> The baffled expression on Callie's face gave way to shock and awkwardness once she comprehended the situation. <br /> <br /> "S-Sure. I'll go right now." <br /> <br /> She slid out of the door and closed it.<br /> <br /> Jasmine chuckled. <br /> <br /> "Your secretary is sensible and funny."<br /> <br /> Diego pulled away from her to get her coat. A crease knitted between his brows. <br /> <br /> "Enough fooling around. Are you going to leave dressed or naked? If you want the latter, I'm happy to lend you a helping hand."<br /> <br /> "Try me." <br /> <br /> She cocked her brow as she didn't believe Diego's words.<br /> <br /> As soon as she finished speaking, Diego threw the coat to one side and stripped her of her shirt.<br /> <br /> Before she could react, he pulled her into his arms and trailed his fingers on her back.<br /> <br /> Completely flustered, she covered her chest. <br /> <br /> "What are you doing, jerk? Do you think you're the only one with guts here?"<br /> <br /> She became agitated and caught the secret pin of his belt and pressed it. The belt dangled in midair. <br /> <br /> Something dark was churning in his eyes as he stared at her.<br /> <br /> Right then, a knock resounded on the door, and the doorknob twisted.<br /> <br /> Before the person could open the door, Diego pushed back against it. <br /> <br /> "Don't come in!"<br /> <br /> He withdrew his hand to wear his belt. <br /> <br /> "Get dressed already!"<br /> <br /> "I thought you wanted me to leave naked. Why are you stopping me now? Because you don't want others to see?"<br /> Chapter 4<br /> Diego was rendered speechless. He gave Jasmine a cold look before returning to his table to bury himself in the documents, ignoring her.<br /> <br /> Jasmine swiftly dressed herself and opened the door to leave. <br /> <br /> But Jesse Taylor—their old friend—was holding some documents by the door.<br /> <br /> He arched his brows at her. <br /> <br /> "Why didn't you let me in? What… were you guys doing in there?"<br /> <br /> "Take a guess." <br /> <br /> Jasmine put on a serious face while brushing her hair. <br /> <br /> "Did you sleep with him again? I will only pay when I see the proof!"<br /> <br /> "Knock on the door at the right time next time." <br /> <br /> She said that intentionally before leaving.<br /> <br /> Diego raised his head to watch her leave. Her antics frustrated him.<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> Jasmine returned to her office in the afternoon. <br /> <br /> An offer came in. It was a request for her to represent a huge company. She would be paid handsomely for the job.<br /> <br /> When the boss left, Fabian, who had been waiting for a long time, immediately entered her office. <br /> <br /> "Be honest with me. How much do you earn annually? You have so many clients."<br /> <br /> "Have you installed the surveillance camera?" <br /> <br /> Jasmine watered the orchids in her office nonchalantly. She thought it was a bad idea to reveal her income to outsiders.<br /> <br /> "I've done it. But Daisy's boy toy hasn't visited her mansion for two days. I bet Diego has reminded her about it."<br /> <br /> "There's no rush in this." <br /> <br /> Jasmine was calm.<br /> <br /> "Do you have any solutions to resolve the bribery incident?" Fabian asked concernedly.<br /> <br /> She fell silent.<br /> <br /> Diego had the evidence that could prove Fabian's bribery attempt, but he didn't file a lawsuit for it.<br /> <br /> She wondered what Diego was up to. Was he trying to play with her more?<br /> <br /> If so, she didn't mind joining the game.<br /> <br /> "I'll buy us some time for now. Didn't you say that your wife slept with other men?"<br /> <br /> "I'm very sure about it. I ran into her a few times when she was having a meal with different businessmen. From the look in their eyes, I knew there was something going on between them. I wouldn't have married her if I had known she was this kind of woman!"<br /> <br /> "Hire a reliable private investigator. It'll be best to have pictures of her having an affair with another man," Jasmine stated.<br /> <br /> With such evidence, she could negotiate with Diego to reclaim the evidence of Fabian's bribery attempt.<br /> <br /> If Diego still refuses to compromise, she'd need to see him in court first for the bribery case.<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> Diego and Jesse were enjoying their time in the bar at night.<br /> <br /> A woman in a white strap dress showed up. Her makeup was light, and she let her hair loose. She looked stunning.<br /> <br /> The woman walked toward them, and Diego noticed.<br /> <br /> "What a coincidence! Are you guys here for a drink, too?" <br /> <br /> Although there was an empty seat beside Diego, Jasmine chose to sit next to Jesse.<br /> <br /> "You look like a doll today… Are you trying to seduce Mr. Cooper again?" <br /> <br /> Jesse grinned. <br /> <br /> Jasmine ordered a bottle of whiskey from the barista and filled half of her glass with it. <br /> <br /> After taking a sip, she deliberately hung her arm over his shoulders with a smile. <br /> <br /> "I think you're hot, too. You're also funny and nice."<br /> <br /> Diego glanced at her and took a sip of his drink. <br /> <br /> "Jesse, do you know why callous people can appear flirty?" <br /> <br /> He looked serious.<br /> <br /> Jasmine almost choked over her drink. He was chiding her once again.<br /> <br /> She thought he was a jerk for doing so.<br /> <br /> "Because they flirt with different people?" <br /> <br /> Jesse was flabbergasted. <br /> <br /> "Why the question all of a sudden?"<br /> <br /> Sometimes, Jesse swore that he couldn't follow Diego's thoughts.<br /> <br /> "That's right. We should never stoop to that level." <br /> <br /> Diego's tone remained serious.<br /> <br /> Jasmine felt he was being pretentious. <br /> <br /> People might have perceived him as a righteous man, but he was rotten on the inside.<br /> <br /> She sighed.<br /> <br /> "I guess people can stoop that low sometimes." <br /> <br /> She flashed a smile at him while propping her chin on her hand, and he arched his brow in response.<br /> <br /> Jesse choked on his drink and spilled alcohol all over. <br /> <br /> Her face flushed red. It seemed like she had lost this time. <br /> <br /> Agitated, she kicked his shin with her heels and shoved him away.<br /> <br /> Then, she walked over to Diego's seat, bending over to lift his chin and bite his lips.<br /> <br /> Her posture exerted dominance. It was as if a lady boss was forcing a kiss on her submissive boyfriend. <br /> <br /> His expression darkened. He was about to push her away when she pulled herself from him. <br /> <br /> She crossed her arms, satisfied with the mark she left on his lips. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Cooper, please lay the evidence on the table before you speak. If you spout nonsense, I will have to—"<br /> <br /> Halfway through her declaration, he suddenly stood up and towered over her. <br /> <br /> Grabbing her by the waist, Diego pinned her against the counter and bit Jasmine's lips back.<br /> <br /> She moaned in pain.<br /> <br /> Before Jasmine could hit Diego, he withdrew and placed his hands behind his back. <br /> <br /> She massaged her hurting waist and touched her lips, which were bleeding because of his bite.<br /> <br /> Her opinion of him being a jerk strengthened. <br /> <br /> She was so annoyed that she barked a laugh. <br /> <br /> "Diego Cooper, I will make you kneel and beg for mercy one day!" <br /> <br /> "Is that so?" <br /> <br /> He chuckled.<br /> <br /> "I swear to God!" Jasmine waged a challenge.<br /> <br /> He smiled faintly while watching her.<br /> <br /> A thrilled Jesse was grinning ear-to-ear. <br /> <br /> "Holy moly, you're going to make him kneel and beg for mercy? You have guts, Ms. Black! But… I love it! I'm betting ten thousand dollars!"<br /> <br /> He would love to see Diego do that. After all, Diego had always been the epitome of arrogance.<br /> <br /> Jesse quickly repeated Jasmine's words in the group chat, which sent everyone wild. <br /> <br /> Such bliss should be shared for the greater good.<br /> <br /> Everyone in the group chat began placing their bets, and her phone kept ringing from the influx of messages.<br /> <br /> She checked the notifications and rolled her eyes at Jesse. <br /> <br /> "Wow, thanks."<br /> <br /> "My pleasure. The more, the merrier, right?" <br /> <br /> He grinned sheepishly while brushing the tip of his nose.<br /> <br /> Jasmine filled her glass and downed it all to regain her composure. Then, she headed to the restroom. <br /> <br /> Some suspicious men were following her from behind.<br /> <br /> When they reached the corridor to the restroom, someone said to her, "Jasmine Black from Black, Murphy & Associates?"<br /> <br /> She spun around and questioned the six sceptical-looking men, "Who are you working for?"<br /> <br /> "That's none of your business. Anyway, someone wants you crippled to ruin your career," said the leading man with red hair. <br /> <br /> He brandished the metal bar from his shirt and signaled his men to charge at her. They were all holding the same weapon.<br /> <br /> "Fuck. You've just underestimated me there."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> The six suspicious-looking men had approached her at the right time.<br /> <br /> Jasmine coincidentally needed to vent her frustrations.<br /> <br /> She warmed up her legs before suddenly kicking the red-haired guy, sending him flying and landing on three other men.<br /> <br /> A few minutes later, Diego, who also had to use the restroom, noticed a bunch of guys surrounding Jasmine. <br /> <br /> An icy, intimidating air emanated from her.<br /> <br /> He joined the fray, easily taking down those men with a few punches and kicks. The blows he dealt were clean-cut.<br /> <br /> He might appear to be a level-headed and calm person, but his combat skills were fatal.<br /> <br /> "Who are you working for?" Diego interrogated while stepping on one of the men's faces.<br /> <br /> "It's…" <br /> <br /> The man had an idea and lied, "It's Mrs. Cannon from Cannon Group! Ms. Black sent her husband to prison, so she wanted us to teach Ms. Black a lesson."<br /> <br /> "Jesse, call the cops." <br /> <br /> Diego kicked the man and approached Jasmine. <br /> <br /> "Are you alright?"<br /> <br /> A quick-witted Jasmine clutched her abdomen, feigning pain. <br /> <br /> "They hit my stomach with a stick. It hurts…" <br /> <br /> Diego wordlessly scooped her up and headed outside. Jasmine was very confused. <br /> <br /> She wondered if he was worried about her, even though he said she was heartless and kept angering her.<br /> <br /> She considered if he was suffering from dissociative identity disorder.<br /> <br /> Jesse called to them, "Hey! Are you leaving so soon? Why am I cleaning up the mess for you guys again?"<br /> <br /> However, the ungrateful duo didn't respond to him.<br /> <br /> In the car, Diego asked, "Do you want to go to the hospital?"<br /> <br /> Hugging his neck, Jasmine leaned her head to rest on his shoulder. She stifled the urge to grin while continuing her act. <br /> <br /> "It's fine. Do you have medicine at home? You can help me tend to my wounds."<br /> <br /> "I'll send you back to your place then." <br /> <br /> He removed her hands so that she could be seated properly.<br /> <br /> "No! I want to go to your place!" <br /> <br /> She plastered herself to him, whining.<br /> <br /> Diego pushed her away and cupped Jasmine's face. <br /> <br /> "You said it was a game. Is my place a playground, then? A place you can come and go whenever you want?" <br /> <br /> "I wanna go!" <br /> <br /> She slapped off his hand and snorted.<br /> <br /> She was going to make this man fall for her one day.<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> The next morning, Jesse returned to Diego's office from the police station.<br /> <br /> "Did the cops look into it? Was it Mrs. Cannon?" inquired Diego.<br /> <br /> "Not her, but your client, Daisy Freeman." <br /> <br /> Jesse delved his hands into his pockets, smiling.<br /> <br /> Diego's expression darkened.<br /> <br /> "If Jasmine finds out it's Daisy behind this, she'll surely sue her. So, I called Jasmine and told her it was Mrs. Cannon's doing."<br /> <br /> Diego didn't respond. Instead, he contacted Daisy to arrange a meeting at his office.<br /> <br /> After the call ended, Jesse asked, "Are you still not going to file a lawsuit against Fabian? No one can ever escape from the charges of bribing a lawyer. Besides, if you file the lawsuit now, you won't have to meet Jasmine in court after that."<br /> <br /> "It's none of your business." <br /> <br /> Diego took a sip of his coffee.<br /> <br /> "This is not like you. Have you fallen for her after sleeping with her?" Jesse teased.<br /> <br /> "You must be blind," Diego retorted.<br /> <br /> "Then, why don't you want to close this divorce case as soon as possible?"<br /> <br /> "Can't I toy with her for a while longer? Look how arrogant she is." <br /> <br /> As Jasmine had said, this was simply a game. It wouldn't hurt to play along with her, would it?<br /> <br /> "Fine. But do not lose the case because of this game. I've seen how Jasmine defended her client in court several times before. She was sharp, quick-witted, and intimidating. She finished asking her questions before the opposing lawyer could react."<br /> <br /> "Do you think that I'll lose to her?" <br /> <br /> Diego cocked his brow.<br /> <br /> "What if you're blinded by love?"<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> Daisy intentionally chose a tight black dress with a deep neckline to wear to Cooper, Taylor & Associates. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Cooper, why did you call for me?" <br /> <br /> Her sexy gait carried her to his table.<br /> <br /> She had the nerve to rest her hand on his shoulder before sliding it down to his chest.<br /> <br /> Her beauty gave her the confidence to take down any man.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Diego stood up and choked her, dragging her all the way to the floor-to-ceiling window.<br /> <br /> He was forced half of her body to hang out of the window.<br /> <br /> "First of all, I'll cut your hands off if you touch me again. Secondly, I'll send you straight to prison the next time you hire someone to hurt Jasmine. You won't be able to get a single penny out of your divorce!"<br /> <br /> Daisy coughed while trying to pry his hand away.<br /> <br /> Looking at his menacing expression was already intimidating enough. When she turned her head to gaze down at the dizzying height, fear gripped her.<br /> <br /> They were on the 118th floor.<br /> <br /> "I-I won't do it again…"<br /> <br /> Only then did he lift her up and throw her to a corner. <br /> <br /> "You better see to that."<br /> <br /> The heels Daisy wore were so high that she almost lost her balance and fell. <br /> <br /> She clenched her fists and tried to regain her composure. <br /> <br /> "Why are you taking her side?" <br /> <br /> She couldn't help the question.<br /> <br /> Diego wiped his hand, which had touched her, with a few pieces of tissue paper. <br /> <br /> He spun around, pinning her with his sharp gaze. <br /> <br /> "If my reputation is ruined, will you compensate for it?"<br /> <br /> Daisy initially assumed that Diego had feelings for Jasmine. It turned out that he was simply trying to defend his reputation.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Cooper, are you confident that we can win this case? I don't want to split my assets into half for that guy without a valid reason."<br /> <br /> Over the last two days, Daisy had looked into Jasmine. <br /> <br /> Jasmine accepted various high-profile cases. She was even the defense attorney for a death-row prisoner, who was then released without charges.<br /> <br /> Diego may be able to send an innocent person to jail, but Jasmine could get a prisoner off death row.<br /> <br /> That was why Daisy was worried about seeing Jasmine in court.<br /> <br /> "With me, all I ask is whether you want to win or not because I will certainly win it." <br /> <br /> He spared Daisy a cold glance before returning to his seat.<br /> <br /> Daisy didn't say anything further and left.<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> Jasmine and her assistant, Addison, were on their way to the courthouse together.<br /> <br /> "Ms. Black, don't you think the plaintiff is pitiful? His daughter needs the money to receive treatment. If he loses the case and is unable to receive insurance for compensation, what's gonna happen to her?" asked Addison.<br /> <br /> As Jasmine crossed her legs, she shifted her attention from the documents in her hands to give him a brief look. <br /> <br /> "Having faith in your client and giving them the greatest advantage is the basic principle of a lawyer."	LEARN_MORE	https://enjoyae.com/wf_land_page/12119.html?langua	102579799309506	Webfic-love	https://facebook.com/100086745850436	2,071	2	943,462,580,812,737	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Learn more	Webfic-love	120209577077260382	enjoyae.com	NONE	video		https://enjoyae.com/wf_land_page/12119.html?language=en&timestamp=1715168570680&channelCode=WIENF1000147&bid=21000205576&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&ad_group_name={{adset.name}}&ad_group_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	2024-05-08 07:15	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305490_1660290674714179_5326641414540603291_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Y9U6nQNwd2oQ7kNvgF9N8f5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCd-W466AsZdbQeCiAhEP3EV2C2d-RocvE73lC-7Z90yg&oe=6641DF0F	person_profile	Webfic-love	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222337_1586407721904982_601488940282098833_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5thazAtgCwEQ7kNvgGjn81F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDYfAGytRyom_FCWRnHJOMpgEgOBKbGttsfbLMTJKFDQQ&oe=6641DDB6	3	Webfic-love	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,773,220	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-05-08 13:56	active	751	1135788800981039	Get a free Debt Consolidation	Guys, I've been struggling with credit card debt for, like, four years now. It's been one of the most stressful things in my life. I can barely make the minimum payments a lot of times, and I'm always getting calls from debt collectors. The crazy thing is, I saw this new thing on the news, and it took me 30 seconds to resolve years of credit card debt and stress. So check this out. I was $26,000 in debt. I applied for this program. It took me 30 seconds, and I was able to relieve $25,000 in debt. This literally took me 30 seconds to relieve years of credit card debt stress, and it was so easy to do. If you guys want to check it out and you have over $25,000 credit card debt, you can apply for this program. Ill leave the link that I used down below. All you have to do is click the link, answer a few questions, and you can see how much credit card debt you can relieve.💸	LEARN_MORE	https://track.dailydealtrk.com/66394ec8d29e0500013	324633654060402	Martin Miller	https://facebook.com/61559129943454	0	1	3,627,956,324,094,837	2024-05-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Martin Miller	120210607266430299	track.dailydealtrk.com	NONE	video		https://track.dailydealtrk.com/66394ec8d29e0500013b2cea?sub1={{ad.id}}&sub2={{adset.id}}&sub3={{campaign.id}}&sub4={{ad.name}}&sub5={{adset.name}}&sub6={{campaign.name}}&sub7={{placement}}&sub8={{site_source_name}}&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid	2024-05-06 17:52	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173949_760794932876104_306229758435289586_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ip1jM-yDqBIQ7kNvgHN5-6u&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDVubVZFQhMBW_js6Zbi5zit9clCcrbJnmWjl-CB3qZog&oe=664193D7	person_profile	Martin Miller	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438109185_959530172164240_4727605174500573031_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fnc-ywgAwLkQ7kNvgFlItbD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDCWevrBdhdoW5h1Q8tOMu9PwNkjtTmmzj5Xa3XXgEYDg&oe=6641A770	3	Martin Miller	2024-05-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,663	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778662}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:41	active	760	3735223040079545	Multiple Sclerosis: What You Need to Know	Don't Let MS Dim Your Light👇<br /> Find an MS specialist to discuss treatment options and create a personalized care plan. Get matched today.<br /> <br /> Visit the website✅<br /> Call today✅<br /> Schedule a consultation✅	LEARN_MORE	https://www.questionhero.io/dcl?q=multiple-scleros	113910230942013	We Share	https://facebook.com/100079858899574	4,006	1	1,476,213,323,001,892	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	We Share	120208767237050098	questionhero.io	NONE	image	Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system that results in the malfunctioning of the brain’s communication with the nerves. The disease occurs when protective coating around the nerves degrades. This coating, called myelin, is essential for preserving nerve endings and other par...	https://www.questionhero.io/dcl?q=multiple-sclerosis&o=1674558&terms=pain relief for multiple sclerosis, ms nerve pain medication, infrared light therapy for ms, medication for ms tremors, ms leg pain treatment, brace therapy multiple sclerosis, best medicine for multiple sclerosis, over the counter medicine for multiple sclerosis, new ms drug monthly injection, best oral ms medication, medications to treat ms symptoms, 6 month ms infusion&akid={{ad.id}}&platform=fb&campaignid={{campaign.id}}&adsetid={{adset.id}}&adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-08 05:32	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440336483_1619086635542252_7841757228816375117_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3wUlc3XLE60Q7kNvgGNW6pu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC3q8aI7FNNnKWYliWnzmdzlIyFkPK-iAlFt2qI_FzbOQ&oe=6641DDDE	person_profile			3	We Share	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,775,517	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-05-08 15:50	active	752	729710875756578	Military Rings	Custom made rings 💍 for Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard. FREE SHIPPING 🚢 #militaryspouselove #army #usn #usnavy #marinecorps #usaf #giftsforhim	SHOP_NOW	https://www.militaryonlineshopping.com/store/Milit	611124432265100	Military Online Shopping	https://facebook.com/mil.shopping	1,284	1	783,241,023,900,271	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop now	Military Online Shopping	6565933793426	militaryonlineshopping.com	NONE	image	Military Rings custom designed for all branches, units and divisions of the United States Armed Forces. These rings are specifically designed to enable soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines to commemorate their years in the service.Select Your Ring Below & Start DesigningSome soldiers....	https://www.militaryonlineshopping.com/store/Military-Rings/	2024-05-08 11:34	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430966_1513430679550647_5389636989118624653_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U0eEQDNkldsQ7kNvgGo6siY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC19g_L0bIrg8mB1JShUBcYw7TogtCrWcaRtGpIF0vpLA&oe=6641C615	person_profile	Military Online Shopping	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441950823_451147780797062_308259035593610763_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oCOHHTKA6jgQ7kNvgHraERP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD32CtmnHWHbiX1QipIfh9QyCz7veeF7Z7xd0vsCChsKg&oe=6641A649	3	Military Online Shopping	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,769,769	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1769772}'	No	2024-05-07 19:13	active	748	1105301050776095	🚨Last Change to Get Tickets & Enter for a Chance to Win!	🚨Only a few hours left to secure your Natchitoches Jazz Fest ticket AND be automatically entered to win our amazing Steel Magnolias Getaway Giveaway! 🎶 Join us for the 27th Annual Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival on May 10-11, 2024, featuring Craig Morgan, Chapel Heart, and many more! Purchase your festival tickets now and get a chance to win an incredible weekend getaway in Natchitoches, Louisiana! The Giveaway Prize Package includes: 🏡 2-night stay at the iconic Steel Magnolias House B&B 🥗 $50 gift certificate for Merci Beaucoup Restaurant 🥩 $100 gift certificate for Mayeaux’s Steak House 🛥 Scenic cruise on the Cane River Queen for two 🎁 $100 gift certificate to Plantation Treasures Gift Shop! 🎁 $100 gift certificate to Magnolia Spa Wellness & Boutique ❤️ 2 carriage ride tickets 🥞 $50 gift certificate for Lasyone’s breakfast 🍗 (2) 3 meat plates and drinks from the World Famous Sweetie’s Barbecue 💰The approximate value of the package is over $1,000! Don't miss out: ⭐️ More tickets = more chances to win! ⭐️ Treat your loved ones with ticket gifts! ⭐️ Share with friends and boost your odds together! Ticket Options: 🎟 FREE for Kids Under 12 🎟 FREE for Active Military 🎟 Student Discount Tickets 🎟 $25 for 1-day General Admission (Friday Only) 🎟 $55 for 1-day General Admission (Saturday Only) 🎟 $70 for Weekend General Admission (Friday & Saturday) 🎟 $125 for Weekend VIP (Friday & Saturday) 🔴 Get your tickets and enter the giveaway today: 👇 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/27th-annual-natchitoches-jazzrb-festival-tickets-773109018887 Good luck! 🍀	SHOP_NOW	https://www.eventbrite.com/e/27th-annual-natchitoc	324970107560	Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival	https://facebook.com/Natchjazzfest	7,934	7	321,822,834,341,815	2024-05-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop Now	Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival	6559383057941	eventbrite.com	NONE	dco	Join us for an unforgettable weekend of music, fun, and memories at the Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival! Secure your tickets now and be entered to win a luxurious Steel Magnolias Getaway Package! 🎟️🌟	https://www.eventbrite.com/e/27th-annual-natchitoches-jazzrb-festival-tickets-773109018887	2024-05-06 21:34	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440072620_959631062478222_4555380863147094313_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ru4HKEnMY1cQ7kNvgGMbVxt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAV-28bVNlF10TndTK3EdYQLQdRjztSwjnBuVYZIPR_8w&oe=664093B2	person_profile	Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186076_323273130573123_6237087036180789839_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ratS1BmYmy8Q7kNvgG0DWkf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCWVvSwLhjCyw-I_WyADGt5Labcgl1ZogrGFzmCxSHm0Q&oe=66409CA2	3	Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival	2024-05-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,772,268	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1772065}'	Yes	2024-05-08 13:47	active	751	794461755950348	Americans With $10,000+ In Credit Card Debt Can Now Write Off $1,000s From Their Debt...	→ Americans With $10k+ Credit Card Debt…👇<br /> <br /> The big banks and credit card companies want to keep you in the debt cycle FOREVER… all the interest & fees they charge you, are their profits!<br /> <br /> But thankfully, writing off your debt & escaping the high interest rates is now 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐞𝐫 than ever…<br /> <br /> This NEW 2024 Credit Card Debt Relief Program is helping us everyday Americans become credit card debt-FREE in as little as 15 minutes… 🙏💸<br /> <br /> If you’re an American citizen with over $10,000+ in credit card debt… you will immediately qualify:<br /> <br /> ✅ Write Off 50+ Of Your Credit Card Debt<br /> ✅ Eliminate All The High Interest Rates & Fees<br /> ✅ Put $1,000s Back In Your Pocket Right Away<br /> <br /> Call the FREE helpline today on (855) 711-0684 to see how many $1,000s they can help write off<br /> <br /> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Over 521,952+ 5 Star Reviews	LEARN_MORE	https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-hintca-n	102200252489086	The Debt Bureau	https://facebook.com/thedebtbureau	3,571	1	1,382,296,002,338,180	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	The Debt Bureau	120209638547030694	www.thedebtbureau.org	NONE	video		https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-hintca-newscont-ubqlp-asc-cc	2024-05-06 06:54	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440813231_1345198612825838_7574077435009783790_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rfKj7fjbt_sQ7kNvgF3vTPQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEnTormeqb00wthEPAZDAO2d7KBjW1cVeJvCWMsSpwQg&oe=66419735	person_profile	The Debt Bureau	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441278267_350976511328655_7985726077861753831_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=511BwvPUvMkQ7kNvgEx1KkR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCkU9xpa-fK7a6VRGcwsFB-Y-DCCC8M9rXNIYFeD2GT8A&oe=66417FF0	3	The Debt Bureau	2024-05-06 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,771,156	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1771157}'	No	2024-05-07 19:28	active	749	440143121938777	Bye-Bye Fine Lines & Eye Bags 👋🏽 Now $50 OFF!	🎉 Vancouver-Hazel Dell LOVES Cryofacials! 🎉<br /> “Finally a natural alternative to toxic injections and surgery… it nearly eliminated my fine lines and wrinkles” - Kelly D.<br /> <br /> The Cryofacial treatment is a painless, non-surgical solution to younger, brighter, tighter skin.<br /> It can help 💥REDUCE💥 signs of aging, improve wrinkles and lift areas on the face and neck.<br /> <br /> By using this breakthrough technology to naturally increase blood flow and collagen production to the treated area(s), our clients have toned & tightened their face and necks and loved their results.<br /> <br /> We’re SO excited to introduce Cryofacial to the area that we’re offering new clients a No Obligation $25 Consult + $50 OFF your first CryoFacial series!<br /> <br /> 🔹 No Side Effects🔹 No Pain🔹 No Recovery Time🔹<br /> <br /> Schedule an initial consultation to meet with our Cryoskin Specialist to learn how Cryoskin can help you achieve your skin goals!<br /> <br /> 👇 Click “Learn More” below to claim this offer so we can help you reach your goals! 👇<br /> <br /> Please Note: Limited complimentary consultations available. Book now to secure your free consultation today!	LEARN_MORE	https://handandstonebookings.com/vancouverhazeldel	846945092003993	Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa	https://facebook.com/handandstonevancouverwa	1,901	1	906,686,897,704,569	2024-05-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa	6567809060622	handandstonebookings.com	NONE	video	Limited time offer for new clients only!	https://handandstonebookings.com/vancouverhazeldell-facial-6902	2024-05-07 09:23	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440414533_463983052769581_9214547864583973598_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z3PEyaeXpIAQ7kNvgGlY32R&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCT07jeVBY3tXKGQ50E5nNmp0AVUfwtgFHFgc-Asxd2lw&oe=66409DAD	person_profile	Hand and Stone Vancouver	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438299932_975517173621466_735764403867214018_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wcPgn2dg04kQ7kNvgEOjuOf&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAY_B7_v9I4SkmF1Gb3JbzJMen7OitzDPcNsgyPW58H5w&oe=664088E5	3	Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa	2024-05-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,933	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778952}'	No	2024-05-08 18:44	active	760	453421457369109	Read More	She signed the divorce papers and left without taking her phone. He checked her phone and got floored at the message: Please come tomorrow for another prenatal care checkup!<br /> =============<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Ex-girlfriend Returns<br /> <br /> Raegan Hayes was a little absent-minded at the moment. <br /> <br /> All she could think of since this afternoon was the doctor's words. "Congratulations! You are going to be a mom."<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Mitchel Dixon pinched her arm. His low voice came the next second. "Come back to earth. What are you thinking about?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel was her husband. They had been married secretly for two years. He was her superior at work, the president of the Dixon Group. <br /> <br /> Everything had happened so fast. She was newly employed in the company when they unexpectedly got married. <br /> <br /> At that time, Mitchel's grandfather fell seriously ill. It was then he proposed a fake marriage just to fulfill his grandfather's dying wish. <br /> <br /> They signed a prenup, agreeing to hide their marriage from the public. Their union could be terminated at any time. <br /> <br /> It was an unconventional thing to do. However, Raegan only considered herself lucky at that time. <br /> <br /> Never in a million years did she think she would ever get married to the man she had a crush on for eight years. She delightfully agreed. <br /> <br /> After their marriage, Mitchel was very busy. He spent most of his time working. <br /> <br /> Raegan wished she could spend more time with him at home. However, she was rest assured because there hadn't been any rumors or scandals about him with women in the past two years. <br /> <br /> Except for his mild indifference, Mitchel was a perfect husband. <br /> <br /> Raegan had mixed feelings as she stared at the medical report. <br /> <br /> In the end, she decided to tell Mitchel this news. <br /> <br /> She also wanted to tell him that she hadn't learned about him for the first time two years ago and that she had been crushing on him for many years before then. <br /> <br /> Just then, Mitchel’s phone rang. He went to the balcony and answered the phone. <br /> <br /> Raegan checked the time and found that it was already midnight. <br /> <br /> She felt a little uneasy. Who would call Mitchel at this hour? <br /> <br /> Mitchel spent a few minutes on the balcony. Thereafter, he returned and changed into formal attire. His handsome face which had a clear outline made him look dignified. <br /> <br /> He was something to see now. <br /> <br /> "Don't wait up for me. Good night," he said finally. <br /> <br /> What? He was on his way out? At this hour? <br /> <br /> Raegan's grip on the report tightened as she stared at him in disappointment. Unconsciously, she withdrew slightly. After thinking for a while, she blurted out, "It's already so late."<br /> <br /> Mitchel's fingers froze on his tie. With a faint smile, he pinched her earlobe and said, "Be good, okay? There's something I have to do. Don't wait up."<br /> <br /> With that, he headed for the door. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel."<br /> <br /> Raegan quickly ran and caught up with him. <br /> <br /> Mitchel turned around and looked at her seriously. <br /> <br /> "What's the matter?"<br /> <br /> There was a tinge of coldness to his voice. An icy cloud hung over them as they stared at each other. <br /> <br /> A little distressed, Raegan asked in a low voice, "I would like to visit my grandma tomorrow. Can you accompany me there?"<br /> <br /> Her grandmother always wanted to see her. As a result, Raegan wanted to take Mitchel there to assure her grandma they were happy. <br /> <br /> "Let's talk about it tomorrow, okay?" Without agreeing or declining, Mitchel left in a hurry. <br /> <br /> Several thoughts were threading Raegan's mind. She couldn't sleep a wink. <br /> <br /> After tossing and turning for a long time, she went to the kitchen and made herself a warm glass of milk. <br /> <br /> A few notifications from some online blogs came into her phone. <br /> <br /> However, she wasn't interested in them. She was about to swipe them away when one of them caught her attention. The familiar name made her click on it. <br /> <br /> The news read, "Famous designer, Lauren Murray was spotted at the airport with her mysterious boyfriend earlier today."<br /> <br /> Lauren was wearing a bucket hat. The man's figure was vague, but the outline of his body was enough to show that he was dashing. <br /> <br /> Raegan zoomed in on the picture. The next second, her heart dropped. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was the man in the picture! <br /> <br /> So, he canceled the afternoon meeting just to go pick up his ex-girlfriend from the airport? <br /> <br /> This realization settled like a boulder in Raegan's gut, rendering her flustered. <br /> <br /> Her hands trembled. Subconsciously, she dialed Mitchel's number. <br /> <br /> The dial tone brought her back to her senses. Just as she was about to hang up, the line connected, and a voice came from the other end. <br /> <br /> "Hello!"<br /> <br /> It was a particularly gentle woman's voice. <br /> <br /> Raegan froze for a second and then threw the phone away. <br /> <br /> She suddenly felt sick in her stomach. Covering her mouth, she ran into the bathroom and threw up in the toilet bowl. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Raegan went to work on time. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had tried to get her to stop working after they got married. Stubbornly, she insisted on making her own money. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't kick against her decision, but he asked her to work as his assistant, helping him with the daily chores. <br /> <br /> The head assistant, Matteo Jenkins was left to take care of the major affairs Mitchel had. <br /> <br /> Matteo was the only Dixon Group employee who knew about their marriage. <br /> <br /> Since inception, only male assistants were hired for the president's office. Reagan was the first and only female. Her employment broke the protocol. As a result, other workers couldn't help but wonder if she was involved with Mitchel. <br /> <br /> It took a while before they realized that Mitchel never gave Raegan special treatment. Strangely, this made them despise her even more. <br /> <br /> After all, no one would last long in anything while taking advantage of their looks.<br /> <br /> At this time, one of Raegan's colleagues handed her a document and ordered her to take it to Mitchel's office. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't return home last night. Raegan was so worried that she didn't sleep at all. <br /> <br /> All she kept thinking about was the woman who answered his phone when she called. What was her relationship with Mitchel?<br /> <br /> Raegan already knew the answer to that, but she was still in denial. <br /> <br /> It was difficult for her to come to terms with that fact. <br /> <br /> Raegan tried to remain calm now. She reasoned that no matter what happened, she deserved a result that would be rewarding for all the years she spent loving Mitchel. This couldn't be all for nothing, right? <br /> <br /> She pressed the elevator button calmly and went up to the president's office. Before she walked out of the elevator, she smoothed her hair to make sure she looked good. <br /> <br /> She had arrived at the office, only to see that the door was ajar. A man's voice came. She halted instantly. <br /> <br /> "Come on, man! Do you have any feelings for Raegan or not?"<br /> <br /> The voice belonged to Luis Stevens, a childhood friend of Mitchel's. <br /> <br /> "What do you mean exactly?" Mitchel asked in a cold voice. <br /> <br /> "You know exactly what I mean!" Luis clicked his tongue impatiently and added, "I think Raegan is a good girl. Isn't she your type?"<br /> <br /> "Do you want me to hand her over to you?" Mitchel asked carelessly. <br /> <br /> "You know what, forget it!"<br /> <br /> The scornful laughter of Luis sounded particularly harsh in Raegan's ears. <br /> <br /> They were talking about her as if she were an object. <br /> <br /> Raegan took a deep breath and tightened her grip on the document. <br /> <br /> Soon, Luis's voice was heard again. <br /> <br /> "By the way, I saw the gossip news about Lauren's mysterious boyfriend this morning. That was you, right?"<br /> <br /> "Yes."<br /> <br /> "Well, well, well! That woman still has you wrapped around her little finger. You always want to please her."<br /> <br /> Luis sighed and continued to tease Mitchel. "As the old saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Tell me, did you two..."<br /> <br /> Their conversation was like a thunder exploding over Raegan's head. <br /> <br /> Her face turned pale and her body was as cold as ice. <br /> <br /> The woman was indeed Lauren! <br /> <br /> Absence made the heart grow fonder! <br /> <br /> Every word drove a knife into her heart. <br /> <br /> Several whispering voices filled her head at this time. She suddenly felt light-headed. Her vision became blurry. <br /> <br /> She held the wall and took a step backward. Suddenly, the door was opened from inside. <br /> <br /> "Raegan?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 One-sided Love<br /> <br /> Luis was the one who opened the door. It appeared he was on his way out. <br /> <br /> Raegan balled her hands, turned to him, and nodded. "Hey, Mr. Stevens!"<br /> <br /> Without waiting for him to respond to her greeting, she walked past him and entered the office with the document. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was seated behind a large luxurious desk. In an expensive suit and matching tie, he looked particularly handsome. <br /> <br /> Raegan noticed it wasn't the same suit he had on when he left home last night. How did he get changed? <br /> <br /> With her eyes lowered, she swallowed that question and said instead, "Mr. Dixon, this is from the Marketing Department. Please sign it."<br /> <br /> Mitchel was expressionless as he signed the document at a glance. <br /> <br /> Raegan walked out the door as soon as he handed the document back to her. Luis was still standing at the threshold. <br /> <br /> It wasn't until she went out of sight that Luis turned to Mitchel and said in a hushed tone, "Do you think she heard us?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel's appealing eyes were expressionless at the moment. Obviously, he wasn't paying attention to what Luis was saying. <br /> <br /> To Mitchel, Raegan had always been docile and never felt jealous of anyone. <br /> <br /> Her strict obedience was all Mitchel demanded from her in exchange for treating her well. <br /> <br /> In the elevator. <br /> <br /> Raegan held her breath just to hold back her tears. Unfortunately, it didn't work. <br /> <br /> She had thought two years would be enough for Mitchel to realize how much she loved him and reciprocate her love. <br /> <br /> Now, it turned out that was just a pipe dream. <br /> <br /> She realized she would always play second fiddle to Lauren, Mitchel's true love. <br /> <br /> Reagan wiped her tears when the elevator halted. Save for her pale face, she looked normal when the doors opened. <br /> <br /> She dragged herself to the break room, intending to make herself a cup of tea. <br /> <br /> Several employees were chatting inside. <br /> <br /> "Guys, have you heard? Lauren Murray is back."<br /> <br /> "And who is that?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, my! You don't know her? Lauren is the heiress of the Murray Group as well as a world-class designer. Most importantly, she's the only girlfriend Mr. Dixon has ever shown off in public. She's his first love!"<br /> <br /> "Why is her return such a big deal? Isn't it rumored that there is something between Mr. Dixon and Raegan?"<br /> <br /> "Raegan? She's nothing to Mr. Dixon. Mr. Dixon never admitted that he was dating her. And that is no surprise to me. After all, look at her. She's not even that beautiful. Yet, she behaves as if she's already Mrs. Dixon. What a fool!"<br /> <br /> Standing at the door, Raegan smiled with self-mockery as she listened to them. It turned out everyone else saw the truth except her. <br /> <br /> The love was one-sided. <br /> <br /> "Ha-ha, have you finally woken up from your wild dream, Raegan?"<br /> <br /> A voice of mockery suddenly came from behind. Raegan turned around to see Tessa Lloyd, Mitchel's cousin, who had always despised her. <br /> <br /> Tessa must have also heard the employees gossiping. <br /> <br /> The last thing Raegan wanted to do now was argue with Tessa in the company. She turned to leave, but Tessa blocked her way. <br /> <br /> With a cup of coffee in her hand, Tessa uttered sarcastically, "Lauren is back now. Do you think Mitchel will still give you any attention?"<br /> <br /> Raegan said nothing to that. <br /> <br /> Seconds later, Tessa continued the ridicule. "Maybe it’s time for you to seek out another man, you pathetic fool."<br /> <br /> Raegan clenched her fists and said coldly, "Ms. Lloyd, if you are interested in that kind of thing, feel free to pursue it yourself."<br /> <br /> "You..."<br /> <br /> Raegan's retort made Tessa's face change. <br /> <br /> The next second, Tessa raised her hand and emptied the cup of coffee on Raegan. <br /> <br /> Raegan didn't think for a second that Tessa would do something so crazy. She held up her arms just to block the liquid from her face. In no time, the coffee drenched her clothes. <br /> <br /> Raegan frowned. "What did you do that for? Are you out of your mind?"<br /> <br /> It was lunch break and many employees were free to watch the drama. Tessa was even more complacent when she saw growing onlookers. <br /> <br /> She put on a mean-girl look as she said, "What makes you so smug every day, huh? Do you seriously think that others don't know you are just an orphan? The nerve of..."<br /> <br /> Tessa was silenced by Raegan’s shove. <br /> <br /> Her jaw dropped to the floor. She had never expected that Raegan, who was so quiet and timid, would shove her. <br /> <br /> Tessa stuttered, "You... You pushed me? How dare you!"<br /> <br /> Raegan eyed her and replied, "Yes, I did! It seems you need to be taught simple politeness."<br /> <br /> Indeed, she lost her parents when she was a child. But that didn't mean she would allow someone to walk over her for it. <br /> <br /> Wrinkles appeared on Tessa's face as she frowned in anger. As Mitchel's cousin, she was used to being fawned over and respected. This was the first time she had been treated like this. <br /> <br /> Tessa charged at Raegan like a raging bull, poised to retaliate. <br /> <br /> This time, Raegan was fully prepared for what was coming. She grabbed Tessa's wrist so that the latter couldn't move another inch. <br /> <br /> Tessa was shorter than Raegan. As a result, she struggled like an octopus that had one of its tentacles stuck in a fishing trap. <br /> <br /> Tessa cursed angrily, "How dare you put your hands on me? Who do you think you are?"<br /> <br /> These harsh words attracted more people to the break room. <br /> <br /> "That's enough!"<br /> <br /> Out of the blue, a baritone came from behind. Mitchel had left his office and ran into this hullabaloo. <br /> <br /> The entire room fell silent. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel?" Tessa's blood ran cold at the sight of Mitchel. She had always been scared of him. Her mother also warned her against provoking him. <br /> <br /> But when she remembered that Raegan humiliated her, she put on a pitiful expression and sobbed. "Mitchel, she bullied me."<br /> <br /> The sunlight from outside fell on Mitchel's handsome face. <br /> <br /> Raegan felt so grieved all of a sudden, and lowered her head to look at her clothes which were soaked with coffee. <br /> <br /> Their gaze met in the air. With a deep frown, Mitchel looked at Raegan and said, "Raegan, have you forgotten the rules of the company?"<br /> <br /> His ruthlessness made Raegan's breathing cease. She couldn't believe her ears. <br /> <br /> No one dared to make a sound at this moment. <br /> <br /> Raegan just stood straight there with her slender figure. <br /> <br /> When she got employed here, Mitchel had told her that the Dixon Group wasn't a place for her to mess around and that he would not tolerate her making any mistakes. <br /> <br /> Raegan could understand why he took this stand. <br /> <br /> However, at this moment, she was desperate to know whether Mitchel had heard those hard words Tessa scolded her or he was just pretending not to have heard because he agreed to those words. <br /> <br /> Was she truly insignificant to him?<br /> <br /> Scared to death by Mitchel's rage, the crowd soon dispersed. A few employees were bold enough to peep from a distance, unwilling to miss the good show. <br /> <br /> Mitchel's cold eyes made Raegan shiver from head to toe. <br /> <br /> Raegan pinched her palm to suppress her emotions as she looked at Tessa. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Ms. Lloyd. As an employee of the Dixon Group, it was wrong of me to have offended you."<br /> <br /> Eyeing Raegan, Tessa raised her chin complacently. "Humph! Don't think you'll be let off the hook just by making a simple apology. I don't buy..."<br /> <br /> "The offence has nothing to do with the company. Personally, I refuse to apologize to you. Now, if you'd excuse me," Raegan chimed in. <br /> <br /> She then walked past Mitchel without sparing him another look. <br /> <br /> "You..."<br /> <br /> Tessa's face turned blue after hearing what Raegan said. <br /> <br /> Never in her years of being alive had she been so humiliated. She was always the bully, not the victim! <br /> <br /> The humiliation was so much that scolding Raegan wouldn't appease her anger. <br /> <br /> Pointing in Raegan's direction, Tessa shouted, "Mitchel, did you hear what that woman just said? She humiliated me, yet she's still so arrogant. Call her back. I have to teach her some manners!"<br /> <br /> Mitchel, staring at Raegan's thin back, had an ambiguous expression at this moment. <br /> <br /> "Enough!" he said coldly, raising his hand. <br /> <br /> As someone who lived and breathed drama and cruelty, Tessa didn't think Mitchel was partial to Raegan just now. She assumed that Mitchel didn't care about Raegan at all. <br /> <br /> Tessa gritted her teeth and said viciously, "Next time, I'll get someone to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> "Tessa!" Mitchel's tone and squint made it a reproof. <br /> <br /> Tessa trembled at once. <br /> <br /> With a somber face, Mitchel said, "I'll only say it once. Forget about what happened here today. Leave Raegan alone."<br /> <br /> The aura he exuded made her tongue go dry. All the vicious ideas she had in store against Raegan disappeared in an instant. <br /> <br /> She stammered, "Ok... Okay, got it..."<br /> <br /> Mitchel cast a cold glance at her and spoke to Matteo. "Irrelevant people wouldn't be allowed in here from today onwards."<br /> <br /> Without catching the drift, Tessa flattered Mitchel. "Nice call. This is a top company. Not everyone gains access in here."<br /> <br /> Matteo nodded to Mitchel and then walked over to Tessa. He gestured to the exit. "Ms. Lloyd, this way, please."<br /> <br /> It wasn't until this moment that Tessa realized that she was the irrelevant person Mitchel just mentioned. She tried to speak to him, but Matteo blocked her way. The security guards then escorted her out. <br /> <br /> They showed her no mercy. Her struggle was useless. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Raegan got changed when she returned to her office. <br /> <br /> Her heart was filled with sadness as she thought of how Mitchel looked at her minutes ago. <br /> <br /> Closing hour soon rolled by. <br /> <br /> Raegan took her bag and headed for the exit. However, Matteo stopped her. <br /> <br /> He said, "Mr. Dixon has something urgent to deal with, so he asked me to drive you home."<br /> <br /> Raegan declined the ride without thinking twice. <br /> <br /> She was blind before, but now she could see through the situation. <br /> <br /> In Mitchel's eyes, she was just a nobody. <br /> <br /> How could Mitchel agree to accompany her to visit her grandmother when he didn't even care about her? <br /> <br /> Upon arriving at the hospital, Raegan saw that the nurse was about to feed her grandmother dinner. Raegan took the job over and did it by herself. <br /> <br /> All her life, her grandmother had been living in the countryside, enjoying a quiet life. Everything changed last month when her routine medical checkup showed that she was in need of medical care. Raegan insisted on bringing her to the city for better treatment. <br /> <br /> Her grandmother wasn't aware of her marriage to Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Raegan had planned to surprise her today. But as it turned out, that was no longer necessary. <br /> <br /> Raegan waited for her grandmother to fall asleep before she left. She walked out of the hospital and waited for a taxi. <br /> <br /> In the distance, a black luxury car pulled into the entrance of the hospital. <br /> <br /> Raegan's eyes lit up when she saw it. She recognized that car as Mitchel's. <br /> <br /> Did he come to pick her up? <br /> <br /> At this moment, she forgot all the pain she had been feeling. <br /> <br /> Were her thoughts about him all wrong? Did he care for her, contrary to the gossip? <br /> <br /> The door of the driver's side opened and Mitchel got out. <br /> <br /> Raegan started walking toward him with her heart brimming with joy. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, she stopped dead in her tracks. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had just walked over to the other side and carried a woman out of the car. <br /> <br /> Worry and compassion were written all over his handsome face. <br /> <br /> This wiped the smile on Raegan's face. Her heart sank. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Let's Divorce<br /> <br /> Mitchel's tall and straight figure got closer and closer to Raegan. And then, without saying a word, he strode past Raegan. <br /> <br /> It was hard to tell if Mitchel saw Raegan or just ignored her. <br /> <br /> Regardless, Raegan noticed that the woman in his arms was the same one who had been photographed with him yesterday. <br /> <br /> She was Lauren. <br /> <br /> Raegan's shoes felt like they were made of lead as she walked away. <br /> <br /> She lost all awareness of her surroundings. She got into a taxi absentmindedly. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, the driver uttered, "Ma'am, where to?"<br /> <br /> Raegan was stunned for a moment. <br /> <br /> She didn't want to go back to Serenity Villas. It was only a matter of time before that place stopped being her home. <br /> <br /> After a while, she replied, "Please take me to Crystal Bay."<br /> <br /> She had purchased an apartment at Crystal Bay after getting married to Mitchel. <br /> <br /> At the time, she had hopes of bringing her grandmother to the city, so she bought the apartment on mortgage. It wasn't that big, but it had more than enough space for two people. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't understand why she wanted to buy an apartment. He offered to give her a bigger one, but she declined. <br /> <br /> Looking back now, she realized that buying that apartment was the only wise decision she had ever made in the last two years. <br /> <br /> When she arrived at the apartment complex, Raegan sat in the park alone, trying to cool herself down. <br /> <br /> The memories of the past two years were bittersweet. <br /> <br /> Two years had passed in the blink of an eye even though it was more than seven hundred days and nights. <br /> <br /> Love could move mountains, they said. <br /> <br /> Yet, her love didn't move that stone of a man. She finally realized what a fool she had been. She had been making herself a laughingstock in front of everyone. <br /> <br /> It was already late in the night before Raegan finally decided to go into her apartment. <br /> <br /> As soon as she stepped out of the elevator, she saw Mitchel standing in front of the door. <br /> <br /> His sleeves were rolled up casually, and the top buttons of his shirt were undone, which revealed his long neck and part of his collarbone. He was leaning on the wall by the door, his handsome face straight. <br /> <br /> Raegan froze for a moment. <br /> <br /> Why was he here? Didn't she see him at the hospital with Lauren? What brought him here? <br /> <br /> Their eyes met. With his coat draped over his arm and one of his hands in his pocket, Mitchel squinted at her. <br /> <br /> "Why didn't you answer the phone?" he asked, sounding a little grumpy like someone who hadn't slept in a long time. <br /> <br /> Raegan took out her phone and saw she had accidentally put it on DND. <br /> <br /> There were five missed calls from Mitchel. <br /> <br /> This marked the first time in their two-year marriage. <br /> <br /> Mitchel blew up her phone because he couldn't find her? Surprising! <br /> <br /> Before today, she would have been overjoyed by this. People would've thought she won the lottery. <br /> <br /> But now, she just threw her phone back into her bag, folded her arms, and said in a hoarse voice, "I didn't hear it ring."<br /> <br /> Mitchel raised his hand to check the time on the watch, and said impatiently, "I've been looking for you for two hours."<br /> <br /> After arranging everything for Lauren, he returned home to find an empty house. He looked for Raegan everywhere. When he couldn't find her, he asked Matteo to check the surveillance footage of all the roads that led away from the company. <br /> <br /> He later found out that Raegan went to Crystal Bay without telling him. <br /> <br /> "Next time, tell me when you are coming here, okay? Let's go home now." After that, Mitchel walked toward the elevator without sparing her another glance. <br /> <br /> He meant to go back to Serenity Villas. <br /> <br /> Raegan didn't move an inch. She just stared at his broad back and pondered reluctantly. <br /> <br /> Would they have a future? <br /> <br /> Mitchell turned around, only to see that Raegan hadn't taken a single step. He frowned and asked, "Can't you walk? Do you want me to carry you instead?"<br /> <br /> The light in the corridor illuminated his face, making his side profile almost impeccable. <br /> <br /> Raegan took a deep breath and said, "Let's divorce."<br /> <br /> "What do you mean?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel's voice was cold, and his handsome face changed immediately. <br /> <br /> "I want to move into my own place. After all, we will be strangers soon."<br /> <br /> Raegan forced a smile, but her heart was aching as if someone was tearing it apart bit by bit. <br /> <br /> "We will be strangers?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel smiled coldly. "Raegan, what do you think our relationship is now?"<br /> <br /> His questioning left Raegan stunned for a moment. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had made it very clear to her from the very beginning. This facade of their marriage had happened by mutual agreement. There was no love. In the eyes of others, they were nothing more than just a superior and a subordinate. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was quite the catch in Ardlens. Many young ladies longed for his love and were even willing to throw themselves at him. <br /> <br /> His question just now reminded her of that fact. Was he afraid that she wouldn't let him go that easily? If that was the case, he couldn't be more wrong... <br /> <br /> After biting her lower lip to conceal her bitterness, Raegan said, "I'm sorry, Mr. Dixon. I was giving it too much thought. Anyway, please leave me alone from now on. You don't have to come here again."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Raegan couldn't help but burst into tears. <br /> <br /> How could she not be sad when she was cutting ties with the man she had loved for a decade? It was such a long time. <br /> <br /> Regardless of how difficult it was, she knew it was time to let go. <br /> <br /> It was high time she stopped being a fool. <br /> <br /> Strangely, the light in the corridor began flickering. <br /> <br /> The deathly stare Mitchel was giving Raegan right now made the atmosphere seem like the moment before an attack in a horror movie. <br /> <br /> Although he understood that Raegan sometimes could throw a tantrum, he felt that she had just crossed the line now. <br /> <br /> His eyes shone like blazing torches at this moment. But when he saw the tears in her eyes, the rage inside him extinguished in an instant. He said in a low voice, "If this is about what happened between you and Tessa, I..."<br /> <br /> "No, this isn't about her. Mr. Dixon, please leave now."<br /> <br /> A lot of things happened between them. And the incident with Tessa didn't come close to any. <br /> <br /> Raegan felt exhausted. She passed by Mitchel and was about to open the door. <br /> <br /> Yet, Mitchel was displeased with her stubbornness. <br /> <br /> He loosened his tie irritably. He then took a step forward and grabbed her wrist. <br /> <br /> "Stop this, will you?"<br /> <br /> A second later, he put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her into his arms. <br /> <br /> He instantly realized that she was burning up like someone who had been set on fire. <br /> <br /> "You have a fever?"<br /> <br /> Raegan felt dizzy. She rested her head on his chest weakly. <br /> <br /> This made the whole situation complicated. <br /> <br /> Reagan was slow to catch that. When she finally realized that her body was too close to his, she put her hands against his chest and tried to pull back. <br /> <br /> Before she could escape, Mitchel pulled her back and held her by the waist. With a cold face, he said in a low voice, "Where do you think you are going?"<br /> <br /> The light flickered again. Out of the blue, Mitchel lifted her up. <br /> <br /> He then headed for the elevator. <br /> <br /> In a daze, Raegan asked softly, "What are you doing?"<br /> <br /> "What does it look like I am doing?" Mitchel remarked. "Taking you to the hospital, of course."<br /> <br /> "No way!" Raegan cried out in surprise and seemed to regain more strength. <br /> <br /> Mitchel might find out about her condition if they went to the hospital.<br /> <br /> Raegan struggled to get out of Mitchel's arms. However, his tight grip made her efforts fruitless. <br /> <br /> "Don't be so stubborn. You are sick, so you must see the doctor," Mitchel said firmly. <br /> <br /> He walked to the elevator with her in his arms. At this moment, Raegan's heart was thumping so hard that it could jump out of her chest. She flailed in protest. <br /> <br /> "Put me down! I don't want to go to the hospital!"<br /> <br /> &13&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-FB_CONTACT-E	106206892171576	Love Story City	https://facebook.com/100083614308933	17,592	2	1,383,420,392,319,142	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Learn more	Love Story City	120208853568820493	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-FB_CONTACT-ENJ57_9-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=961225&accid=1325826931416330&jump=1	2024-05-07 22:18	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441279640_453157950640341_3261557353479676207_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4JSz6ZdDkDIQ7kNvgEfOYxJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDYMebn8IBYuL2NxhaXhTxDI14imfGJDjape8QEop_AuQ&oe=6641D07A	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441337111_802700128070055_5376918379339706188_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cLLEQVPmIS8Q7kNvgFZ4tGx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTQLOWLvn8ZSshHaWv18QOZDa2Y-xjQfw9Dh1krM9eRg&oe=6641CEFD	3	Love Story City	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,769,014	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1769021}'	Yes	2024-05-07 19:12	active	748	999790988163342	Enter to WIN TWO Big-Block Chevys!	Let us introduce YOU to our Super Chevy Giveaway! <br /> <br /> This is your chance to win TWO legendary big-block Chevy muscle cars!<br /> <br /> 1️⃣ Prize #1: A Fully-Restored 1969 Camaro Super Sport<br /> 🔥 Only 14,000 original miles<br /> 🔥 One of 4,978 L78 big-blocks produced<br /> 🔥 375 horsepower V-8, Turbo 400 transmission<br /> 🔥 Positraction<br /> 🔥 Mint Houndstooth interior<br /> 🔥 And so much more!<br /> <br /> 2️⃣ Prize #2: A Fully Restored, Documented ’70 Chevelle SS454<br /> 🔥 360 HP and a whopping 500 lb-ft of torque<br /> 🔥 LS5 454ci V-8, a Turbo 400 column-shifting transmission<br /> 🔥 Positraction<br /> 🔥 Show-quality paint and a mint interior<br /> 🔥 And so much more!<br /> <br /> Dream Giveaway has been helping charities like New Beginning Children's Homes, Victory Junction, Smile Network International, and many more for years.<br /> <br /> With a donation of as little as $3, you'll be supporting charities like these while ALSO being entered into a drawing to win these TWO Big-Block Chevys.<br /> <br /> Use promo code CHEVYFB and we'll double your tickets, doubling your odds! We will also pay $40,000 in taxes👌.<br /> <br /> Enter NOW at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dreamgiveaway.com%2Fdg%2Fsuper-chevy%3Fpromo%3DCHEVYFB&h=AT1Zj4V3hQkrm6gjPdD0HQAaPwWo3TvR7_zadqAhhoyUptoWU3r3fASUDqOhqKT0Yg4kLi3lEn6flh3RHpimicTOOG0NrGFporWTK62jmxbCHLL3zmIxeY2Q2W_vy-IRYflNc-iBUl-POw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.dreamgiveaway.com/dg/super-chevy?promo=CHEVYFB</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://www.dreamgiveaway.com/dg/super-chevy?promo	151916558205890	Dream Giveaway	https://facebook.com/dreamgiveaway	73,632	1	1,615,723,865,862,079	2024-05-07 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	Dream Giveaway	6539759508477	dreamgiveaway.com	NONE	image	🎟 Claim Your Tickets Now!	https://www.dreamgiveaway.com/dg/super-chevy?promo=CHEVYFB	2024-05-07 00:50	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440778004_329876620118034_2430929706428510553_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ftod1mcKdP0Q7kNvgGwY5m-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBpalC0cE5Zc6PLRSIu8-qIROB5y5ouyiuSLcg1FIoLHg&oe=66409A08	person_profile	Dream Giveaway Garage	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442409880_995173962323924_5625422453500781350_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U5Ckb7NFXh8Q7kNvgHXxzm4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEMsDBPGwa5V9tFT2XQopRXLOQxzl_hwAqgzVErjzHkg&oe=6640891E	3	Dream Giveaway	2024-05-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,043	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1777945}'	No	2024-05-08 18:33	active	760	1135762577660950	FREE VIP WORKOUT	⭐️HEY MEN IN THE MOORESVILLE AREA👇<br /> <br /> Have you heard about D1 Training in Mooresville?! We understand starting a fitness journey can be nerve-wracking, but we're here to support you every step of the way. That's why we're offering a FREE VIP WORKOUT❗️<br /> <br /> D1 Training provides men with customized programming to help achieve your fitness goals. Our 5-Star⭐️ Training Program is based on a Division 1 strength & conditioning program and includes a dynamic warm-up, performance, strength, core & conditioning, and a cool-down stretch.<br /> <br /> We get it – stepping into a new fitness environment can be intimidating. That's why every workout at D1 Training is led by a certified coach who offers guidance and motivation, creating a supportive atmosphere to help ease any nerves.<br /> <br /> Our state-of-the-art facility features the same multilayered synthetic turf and top-of-the-line equipment used by top universities and professional athletes🤩<br /> <br /> At D1 Training, we're more than just a gym; we're a community. We're dedicated to providing a proven, professional, positive, and peer-supported environment.<br /> <br /> Click ‘Get Offer’ now and enter your information on the next page to secure your spot for a 𝙁𝙍𝙀𝙀 VIP Workout!<br /> <br /> P.s. Limited spots available, first come first serve. Don't let nerves hold you back – take the first step towards a healthier, happier you!	GET_OFFER	http://fb.me/	112237423755885	D1 Training - Mooresville	https://facebook.com/D1Mooresville	1,401	1	808,358,720,773,752	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Get offer	D1 Training - Mooresville	120210595812250079	fb.me	NONE	image	Limited Spots Available	http://fb.me/	2024-05-08 12:06	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249576_884996230309740_4677498455249006364_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QScuCziZwjsQ7kNvgEFTyce&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC7WiK7JIxH4_-hsG92qqh3y4gvkPA8ST1C1vdhR9ldbg&oe=6641CAF2	person_profile	D1 Training - Mooresville	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440313279_1091857508588392_512500567196086058_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JmDsSJIf2ncQ7kNvgGeoe0G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDoRW4Z1bXVDAvz2CpEaunaxvQBg2WyobwTxkCb0xGl5Q&oe=6641C140	3	D1 Training - Mooresville	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,884	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-05-08 18:43	active	760	386984854335946	continue watching	🔥❤️Elena, hiding her identity as the heiress, faces bullying from colleagues at work and even has her award-winning project stolen‼️Meanwhile, Charles mistakes Chloe for his fiancée, not realizing his actual fiancée is Elena! Surprisingly, 🥰Charles unknowingly falls in love with Elena... When will all the truths be revealed❓ Embark on Elena and Charles's sweet romance‼️🥰❤️😘👇	LEARN_MORE	https://dramapi.mediaradiance.com/api/track/dynami	228883993638292	Shotshort	https://facebook.com/61556269190754	3	1	1,151,606,375,852,702	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Learn more	Shotshort	120207395333690138	dramapi.mediaradiance.com	NONE	video		https://dramapi.mediaradiance.com/api/track/dynamicLandingPageThrV2/21a4fe511ae69cae182715e4e300d93a?ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}	2024-05-07 04:37	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170101_1473349933293989_2291468483836793529_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eKrd5er1xY8Q7kNvgGBCnvT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA44mJiiy9baAYgHws9I0nkxRs1Zuvdw08KJLuPSqHisA&oe=6641C0E8	person_profile	Shotshort	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162177_706273921504577_4718747348182810483_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JWUg0o8nZy4Q7kNvgGAs_-s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfALLaSqn4Kor9tQ9hh3-OrbUnIzsLwJWJw0tLz_6NhYbQ&oe=6641DE97	3	Shotshort	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,230	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778353}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:36	active	760	972929154379505	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	After my boyfriend broke up with me because he found his mate, my father told me a shocking fact.<br /> "Dante Pelosi. The Alpha of the Midnight Fire pack."<br /> Mate!<br /> I flinch in recognition, an eerie feeling of hope filling me. Conflicting with the sense of rejection, it's too much. <br /> How can my wolf be so happy when I feel like complete mass right now?<br /> "That was-- the Alpha?" I whisper.<br /> "Your mate," Dad states, getting to his feet abruptly.<br /> "What--" I huff, pushing the breakfast tray aside.<br /> "You heard me, Alanna. I saw the look in your eyes when you saw him from the truck. Your eyes were glowing...and so were his. That only happens when you first set eyes on your mate."<br /> Dad towers over the bed once more, arms crossed over his chest as I watch me with a knowing smile.<br /> "That's impossible!" I insist, avoiding eye contact.<br /> "No, it isn't. And you're blushing."<br /> "Well, we've been invited to his house. He wants to meet you face to face."<br /> ————————<br /> Alanna's POV<br /> I've been waiting for this night for as long as I can remember. Tonight, the packs will finally know about Kurt and I.<br /> "Aly, we have to leave soon. Kurt said he'll pick you up at eight." Ryan, my older brother repeats in exasperation.<br /> I'm too busy attacking my auburn locks with a flat iron, wondering if my navy dress is formal enough for this evening. I wouldn't want Kurt to think I'm underdressed, especially since he's deciding to make such an important announcement at such a prestigious event.<br /> It's the annual Moonlight Gala, the one night where all twelve werewolf packs in the country are reunited. Whether we like it or not, all of us must get along and the Moonlight Gala is an attempt to encourage social relations between each pack. Only high ranking pack members are allowed to attend, which is why this is such a big deal for me.<br /> Kurt and I are not mates. We've been dating for over a year and we couldn't be happier.<br /> Despite his position as Alpha, Kurt has the same beliefs as me - mates are a myth, they don't exist. By taking me as his 'plus one' to the Moonlight Gala, he's making a statement. I'm the girl he wants to be with and no supposed soulmate can change that. I am his soulmate.<br /> "I think you're making a big mistake, Aly." Reese, my other brother chips in.<br /> I continue to feign ignorance, pausing to glance briefly at my twin brothers who are both staring back in concern, their identical faces showing disapproval. As senior pack fighters, Ryan and Reese are on good terms with Kurt. However, they can't stop him from seeing me. I know they're starting to dislike Kurt due to his audacity by dating me so openly.<br /> "This is my life, guys. My choice. My decision." I hate being so stuck up with my brothers. The three of us are inseparable and any spats between us are usually light hearted.<br /> "Aly, one day ... Kurt will find his mate. He's an Alpha. Do you really think he'll ditch the future Luna of this pack for a teenage romance?" Ryan refuses to give up, his tanned features turning red.<br /> I slam the flat irons down on the dresser, refusing to take the bait. They'll never understand what Kurt and I share. No-one will. I walk past their towering frames, slipping on my black stilettos.<br /> "If it were up to us, we'd put a stop to this. Dad would put a stop to this." Reese adds, scratching his shaven chin.<br /> That's when I cave in, huffing indignantly.<br /> "Well he can't. None of you can!" I snap, losing what little composure I have.<br /> Ryan and Reese blink in surprise, slightly hurt by my temperamental reaction. I'm never like this, I'm usually so calm, this whole situation has been throwing me off for the past few months. Instantly, I regret losing temper. They're only looking out for me.<br /> "Dad is Kurt's Beta." I whisper calmly, smoothing my hair down. "Therefore he can't question Kurt's actions. He can't stop us from being together, so he'll just have to deal with it."<br /> We're interrupted by a brisk knock on my bedroom door. My father pokes his head around the corner, the signature frown present on his broad face.<br /> "Alanna, Kurt is here. Don't keep the Alpha waiting." His disapproving eyes scan my appearance, frown growing harsher.<br /> "I'm ready." I nod, reaching for my clutch purse.<br /> There's nothing else left to say and to avoid another argument, it's easier to leave without another word. Dad steps aside, ready to let me pass.<br /> "Think about what you're doing, Alanna." He states, grabbing my elbow firmly. "This will end badly and you'll be the one with the tainted reputation."<br /> Don't overreact. He's just doing his part as the concerned parent. We should listen to him.<br /> I ignore my wolf, tuning out her protests. She's waiting for our 'mate' and according to her, Kurt is a waste of time. Even his Alpha status isn't attractive to her and wolves love power and dominance.<br /> "I'll see you guys at the Gala." I mutter tersely, prising my arm out of Dad's grip without looking back.<br /> He reluctantly lets me go with a deep sigh. I leave my family standing in my bedroom in awkward silence as I hurry down the stairs to meet Kurt in the manicured driveway.<br /> He's sat in his sleek sports car, nodding his head to the thumping rap music as he checks his appearance for the hundredth time, spiking up his short, corn blonde hair.<br /> He senses my presence as soon as I close the front door, leaning out of the window with a lazy grin. As I approach the car, he flashes his all-American smile in my direction with a wink of his cerulean eyes.<br /> "Hey babe, you look hot." He calls, as I walk around the car and open the door, slipping inside.<br /> You know what else they call a babe? A pig. So technically, he compared us to a pig.<br /> I hush my wolf silently, wishing she'd give up with the snide comments already. Yes, I know she hates Kurt but he's our Alpha and she has to respect him.<br /> He didn't even bother getting out of the car to open your door.<br /> "You ready, Aly?" Kurt asks lightly, squeezing my knee in affection. He starts the car, reversing out of the driveway and speeding off down the road, ready to make the fifteen minute journey to the manor where the Gala will be held.<br /> "Of course, babe. I'm so glad we're going together." I emphasise the word, trying to annoy my wolf. She responds with a growl, showing her distaste regarding my choice of words.<br /> "Good, I can't wait to show you off to the other Alphas." Kurt waggles his eyebrows playfully, making me giggle. Of course, I don't cackle like I usually do. Instead, I use my girly, reserved tone because I know he hates my real laugh.<br /> Oink oink. Stop acting like a Barbie doll. I love your laugh.<br /> "How come we're leaving without the rest of the pack?" I inquire, wondering why Kurt insisted on picking me up so early. The Gala doesn't start till late.<br /> "As Alpha, I have to turn up a little early. The Gala's being held on our turf this year, so I need to greet all the other packs personally." He grumbles, rolling his eyes as he steps on the accelerator, zooming down the dark country road.<br /> He's not our Alpha. He never will be. He's just a pretender.<br /> Stop making this so difficult! Why can't you just agree with me for once?<br /> I'm just stating what everybody else thinks. This fool will never be the great Alpha his father was.<br /> Michael is gone. Kurt's taken over and he's doing a decent job despite being so young, while having to deal with his father's death. Now stop it.<br /> "I was thinking, we should go away for a while. A vacation." Kurt unknowingly disrupts the mental argument I'm having with my wolf.<br /> "I'd love that." My smile fades instantly. "But I don't think Dad would approve."<br /> "Mike can't object." Kurt insists arrogantly, raising an eyebrow in superiority. "As my Beta, he has to listen to everything I say."<br /> Prick.<br /> --<br /> "I can't keep my hands off you." Kurt whispers in my ear, his breath tickling my skin.<br /> "Well you'll have to. We've got a sea of werewolves watching our every move and my Dad's pacing the halls like a madman every time he looks at us." I murmur back, placing a hand over his larger one.<br /> He tightens his grip on my waist, grabbing a delicate flute of champagne from a waiter. I study my shoes nervously, wondering if I've done the right thing by showing up here.<br /> Every werewolf regarded me with a shocked expression as I stood by Kurt's side, letting him welcome each pair to the event. There are thousands of people present, all hailing from every corner of the country.<br /> Alanna, this is a big mistake. You're ruining your reputation. These people think you're a side chick.<br /> I'm silent, beginning to agree with my wolf for once.<br /> So far, eleven out of the twelve packs have show up. In the process, each Alpha and Luna of their respective packs have silently judged me like I'm some sort of escort. I'm such an idiot, thinking I can parade around here like I'm attached to Kurt's hip. Everyone will disapprove and unsurprisingly, they all do.<br /> Maybe I should leave, I don't think I can take the glares and whispering any longer. Kurt won't be happy but this is a minefield that I'd rather dodge before the damage becomes irreparable.<br /> "Where's the Alpha of the Midnight Fire pack?" I recall the name of the remaining pack who are yet to arrive, looking up at Kurt's face. He pulls a face, snorting derisively.<br /> "You mean that prick, Dante Pelosi? He never turns up, sends his Betas along instead. Must be intimidated by me." Kurt announces loudly, catching the attention of a few people.<br /> "I don't think I've ever met him." I mumble to myself, studiously ignoring the group of girls shaking their heads and pointing in my direction as lean in and gossip.<br /> The tinkering chimes of broken glass makes me jump, as I look around for the source of the noise. Kurt's deep exhale of breath grabs my attention as I peer up at him, taken aback by the dumbstruck look on his face.<br /> It's him who is responsible for the noise, his shattered champagne glass at his feet. Kurt's mouth hangs open, his thunderstruck look refusing to let up.<br /> "Kurt?" I call anxiously.<br /> He doesn't reply, blinking repeatedly as he automatically lets go of me, stepping away.<br /> "Kurt?!" I repeat, trying to follow his line of vision. What's gotten him in such a state?<br /> "Mate." He grunts, his cerulean eyes shimmering brightly.<br /> I can feel my heart pounding, as if fissures are already starting to emerge with each palpitation. This can't be happening. This was meant to be our chance to declare our love. How can this be happening to me? Kurt loves me, he already said he doesn't want his mate.<br /> "Mine." Kurt breathes, moving further away from me and stepping forward.<br /> "Mine." A girlish voice repeats, echoing faintly through the palatial banquet hall.<br /> I gasp uncontrollably, my body shaking as I watch a petite woman step out of the throngs of people, approaching Kurt with a similar, glassy eyed look. They stop in front of each other as if they're long lost lovers, finally reunited.<br /> Aly, we need to leave. Don't put yourself through this.<br /> Kurt pulls the pretty girl towards him, planting a passionate peck on her lips. She melts into his touch, responding with equal ferocity. They continue to eat each other's faces and I'm frozen to the spot, unable to look away as I watch the love of my life smooch another woman.<br /> Tears are running silently down my face as I shudder from the silent sobs emitting from my body. I'm aware that every pair of eyes are trained on me, watching my reaction to this public embarrassment I'm facing. Whispers fill the hall, growing louder and louder until the room is positively buzzing.<br /> "Aly, come on. We're leaving." Ryan's angry voice whispers.<br /> My brothers appear out of nowhere, each of them flanking my side protectively. I still can't move, unable to tear my eyes away from Kurt while he continues to smooch us newly found mate. I think I'm going to be sick, bile and humiliation rising in my throat.<br /> Reese and Ryan pull me way from the heartbreaking scene, forcing my attention to the crowd of stunned onlookers.<br /> "What are you looking at?!" Reese spits at some stranger, causing some of the chatter to fade.<br /> I'm quickly escorted out of the building, Ryan pausing to lift me into his arms as I stagger dangerously on my heels. My sobs grow louder and my wolf is solemnly silent, letting me grieve. I bury my face into Ryan's shoulder, sniffling. They were right, everyone was right.<br /> "Let's go home." Reese mutters, a faint jangle of car keys accompanying his rapid footsteps.<br /> Somehow, we make it to the busy parking lot, ignoring the curious valets. I look over Ryan's shoulder, glancing back at the retreating lights of the impressive manor. Somewhere inside, Kurt is fawning over his mate while I'm left to pick up the pieces. The very thought is enough to set me off again.<br /> "Come on Aly, he's not worth it." Ryan whispers sadly, hugging me tighter.<br /> We make it to the Reese's monster truck and Ryan flings the door open settling me in the back seat and following suit. Reese jumps into the front, starting up his beloved truck with its familiar roars.<br /> I'm leaning against Ryan, letting my brother pat my back in comfort. He says nothing more, a pained expression marring his face. I know Reese must look the same, although I can't see him. His hands grip the steering wheel tightly, back stiff with anger.<br /> "Alanna?" Dad's muffled voice calls in concern.<br /> Wiping my nose, I look out of the large window to find Dad approaching the truck, accompanied by a tall figure. The sidelights of the truck illuminate their profiles and I find my father looking unsettled and flustered for first time ever.<br /> "He found his mate!" Reese roars in disgust, thrusting a thumb back in the direction of the manor, for Dad's benefit.<br /> Dad closes his eyes in expectance, nodding as if he was waiting for this to happen.<br /> "Take your sister home. I'll be back soon."<br /> Without another word, he looks back at the anonymous figure still shrouded in darkness behind him.<br /> It can't be ...<br /> My wolf is restless, yipping in excitement and making a fuss. It's wreaking havoc on my emotions, my wolf seemingly giddy with elation while I try to deal with my fresh heartbreak.<br /> The mysterious figure steps forward, finally revealing themselves.<br /> My soft sobs are halted immediately, mouth going dry. My eyes widen in shock as a delicious feeling of warmth invades my body, stretching from the crown of my head to the tips of my toes.<br /> Staring back at me stands a breathtakingly gorgeous man, golden eyes gleaming wickedly in the artificial light. His strong, ethereal features are marred with shock as he's rooted to the spot, his tousled dark brown hair ruffling gently in the breeze.<br /> I gasp at the funny sensations taking over me and I feel like jumping out of the truck and throwing myself at him. His broad, imposing body is tense, unmoving as he portrays every emotion I'm feeling.<br /> Reese begins to move the car, cruising slowly past this delectable man. I lock eyes with him properly, every ounce of air being knocked out of me.<br /> "Mine." I hear a deep, sensual voice float towards me.<br /> Reese floors it, forcing the large truck forward and leaving the elusive man behind.<br /> "Wait--" I protest.<br /> Ryan looks down at me in confusion as I crane my neck back, trying to catch one last glimpse of this gorgeous stranger.<br /> I spot his substantial figure, imposing and immovable. Darkness makes it difficult to see and he fades into distance as Reese continues to zoom away and out of the manor grounds, leaving everything behind.<br /> Mate!<br /> My wolf howls with longing, trying to take over my body and force me to shift, in an attempt to get back to the manor, back to the handsome stranger. I grab the seat in protest, remembering Kurt. The manor is the last place I should be right now.<br /> My conflicted state just makes things worse and I feel physically sick, huddling against Ryan for some sort of solace.<br /> "Alanna. Starving yourself won't change things."<br /> I huddle further underneath the covers, letting the darkness enclose me. I've been keeping a low profile these past few days, sticking to the solace of my bed.<br /> I hear Dad sigh in exasperation, the clinking of cutlery sounding out as he sets down whatever food he has. Just when I think he's given up, my snug covers are cruelly torn away from me.<br /> "Dad!" I mumble, curling up into a ball. "I'm not hungry. Please, just give me my covers back."<br /> I open an eye reluctantly, watching my Dad tower over my bed with a disapproving look. He says nothing, launching the bed covers out of the open window.<br /> "Leave me alone!" I yell, burying my face into the pillows.<br /> "No." He replies firmly.<br /> I feel the bed sink down a couple of inches, Dad deciding to take a seat near me. Clearing his throat awkwardly, I know I'm in for an uncomfortable talk.<br /> "If this is the part where you say 'I told you so', then save it. I feel like such an idiot." I whisper hoarsely.<br /> "I'm not here to rub it in, Alanna. I'm worried about you. So are your brothers. The-- the Gala ended last week and you've been hiding in your room ever since."<br /> "What else can I do? I'm the laughing stock of the whole pack, Dad. I lost both my dignity and my boyfriend in a matter of moments." My voice trembles dangerously and the warning of tears already has my Dad fidgeting.<br /> "Are you more upset about Kurt finding his mate or your reputation amongst the pack?" My father, ever the professional. Not a hint of emotion in his tone.<br /> "Both?" I snort tearfully, getting up to face him.<br /> Dad says nothing, nodding to himself. After a few seconds, he reaches for the breakfast tray and places it on my lap. Setting a spoon in the palm of my hand, he gestures for me to eat.<br /> "Dad, I'm really not hungry." I whisper.<br /> "Just a few bites, Alanna. For me?" His rare plea catches me off guard and I try my hand at a few mouthfuls.<br /> Cracking a small smile, Dad watches me force down some food. It's eerily comforting, sitting here with him after so long. We barely spend more than a few moments together nowadays.<br /> "Where are the boys?" I ask, the sudden urge to see my brothers taking over. Dad's smile vanishes instantly.<br /> "Alpha Kurt and his mate have moved in together. Her name is Claire. Her initiation ceremony into the pack is happening tonight. She will be announced as our Luna later tonight."<br /> I drop the spoon heavily, gasping in disbelief. Tears begin to form in my eyes and I blink them back angrily.<br /> "So soon?! It's only been a few days!"<br /> "Kurt wants her in the pack immediately. The boys have been issued orders to help with the function tonight." A look of anger flashes across his face. "You were also ordered to attend...but I stepped in and put my foot down."<br /> The nerve! I told you he was a jerk!<br /> "Despite everything, he still thinks I'll attend?!" I exclaim, breathing heavily. "Not once has he called or even contacted me to-- to draw a line under things! He's just tossed me aside like I meant nothing!"<br /> Dad nods, rubbing his face tiredly. Lines are starting to appear too frequently across his broad face and I wonder just how many worries he has placed on his shoulders.<br /> "Kurt has stated that he owes you nothing. What happened between you guys was a mere fling. You knew from the start that his loyalties would lie somewhere else. This was your choice from the beginning. You coerced him."<br /> "So he's trying to save his own skin now? Trying to prove to his mate that he was loyal from the start?" I scoff, wiping away my angry tears.<br /> Dad pats my shoulder tersely, back rigid with anger.<br /> "As Beta, Kurt seems to think my allegiances to him are prioritised over my daughter."<br /> "I refuse to go, Dad! I'd rather throw myself off a cliff, then be seen--"<br /> "I know, I know. And I'd never let you go there...not by yourself, anyway."<br /> Tears fall silently and I huff intermittently, feeling like a fool. Kurt has well and truly played me.<br /> "Alanna, do you remember the night of the Gala? When you were leaving with your brothers?"<br /> My stomach jolts and I nod. I remember feeling uneasy and my wolf was yipping with excitement, which I couldn't pinpoint.<br /> "Yeah...I remember seeing you with-- someone else." I pace myself, feeling butterflies for no reason.<br /> "That's right, Dante Pelosi. The Alpha of the Midnight Fire pack."<br /> Mate!<br /> I flinch in recognition, an eerie feeling of hope filling me. Conflicting with the sense of rejection, it's too much. How can my wolf be so happy when I feel like complete mass right now?<br /> "That was-- the Alpha?" I whisper.<br /> "Your mate." Dad states, getting to his feet abruptly.<br /> "What--" I huff, pushing the breakfast tray aside.<br /> "You heard me, Alanna. I saw the look in your eyes when you saw him from the truck. Your eyes were glowing...and so were his. That only happens when you first set eyes on your mate."<br /> Dad towers over the bed once more, arms crossed over his chest as me watches me with a knowing smile.<br /> "That's impossible!" I insist, avoiding eye contact.<br /> "No it isn't. And you're blushing."<br /> "Well, we've been invited to his house. He wants to meet you face to face."<br /> I gesture to my food stained pyjamas and greasy hair, shaking my head furiously. Dad just shrugs, as if there's no problem.<br /> "You have time to make yourself look presentable. This is your chance, Alanna. To avoid Kurt and his mate."<br /> "But Dad--" I insist, yet I'm cut short.<br /> "No excuses, Alanna. Be ready by seven. Presentable or not, you are going. It's either this, or the initiation."<br /> With nothing left to say, Dad leaves the room while I stare into space, absolutely bewildered.<br /> "Listen, Aly. Dad's trying to protect you." Reese explains, watching me comb my tousled locks vigorously. "I know Dante. He's a pretty cool guy; one of those modern Alphas who are destined for greatness. Nothing like Kurt."<br /> The mention of his name flips my stomach with disgust. Whatever feelings I had for that loser have been quashed. Atleast, that's what I'm trying to tell my stubborn brain.<br /> "You should wear this coral dress." Ryan adds, poking his head out of my closet and tossing the outfit towards my bed.<br /> "I don't want to." I grumble, folding my arms and ignoring the exasperated looks I'm getting. "Don't look at me like that! I'm not dolling myself up so I can be objectified."<br /> You didn't have a problem when Kurt objectified you...<br /> My wolf and her snide comments are testing my limits. She might think we've found our mate but I beg to differ. Mates don't exist, despite what everyone thinks. What Kurt suffered from was a major infatuation, not a bond.<br /> "Aly! Look, even if this wasn't an important introduction, you would still have to look presentable. Dante is one of the main Alphas and you're the daughter of a Beta. But forget all that; the bottom line is - Dante could potentially be your mate." Reese scolds me with a frown.<br /> "How do you know? How does anyone know? If you don't recall that night, we were all preoccupied. If he were my mate, I'd have felt it. I would have noticed his presence." My voice is laced with heavy sarcasm, my usual stubbornness on the topic of soulmates.<br /> "Okay, I'll accept that." Reese nods reluctantly, his serious face plastered on. "But Dad was with Dante when he first saw you. Remember, you were in the truck so maybe he didn't see enough of you to react. Dad said he had never seen Dante so restless and he only caught wind of your scent."<br /> "Don't forget your reaction." Ryan adds, lounging on my bed. "I saw you freeze up and hesitate. You couldn't resist him."<br /> I stay quiet, knowing I've been defeated. There was definitely some weird chemistry between Dante and I, that's for sure. Soulmates? Definitely not, but it could be something else.<br /> "Someone's blushing..." Reese sings, grinning at me.<br /> "No-- I'm just thinking." I reply defensively, reaching for my makeup to distract me.<br /> "Don't overthink. Go with the flow. Get ready and just give the guy a chance." Ryan talks in short bursts, jumping to his feet.<br /> "Now that you're a little more accepting, we'll leave you to get ready. You have an hour." Reese launches a scrunchie at my face, exiting the room with his super speed before I can yell at him.<br /> Ryan chuckles, pointing at the coral dress one last time and following Reese's footsteps.<br /> I face my mirror with a frown, ditching my sneaky master plan. I had been plotting to look deliberately ugly; frizzy hair, no make up and stained clothes, to put this Dante guy off. Now come to think of it, there's no reason why I have to put a dampener on my appearance. If anything, I should look extra presentable.<br /> "Prove that I still got it." I mutter to myself, the shame of Kurt's rejection getting me worked up.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.read4funs.com/ad/ZmFuY3lOb3ZlbC8xNzE3MjM	123823310705302	ForFun-100	https://facebook.com/100094441775812	96	1	3,802,925,889,954,703	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	ForFun-100	120210542289960361	a.read4funs.com	NONE	video		https://a.read4funs.com/ad/ZmFuY3lOb3ZlbC8xNzE3MjMvMjAyNDA1MDgxMDUyNTAvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-07 21:57	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441077337_442409105208193_1490996370137639579_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=F-fNqpsmPOkQ7kNvgFxGer7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCezOllmWIHkvKhPtQsEnJBfk5-WB3tVkeCIFjtYYwHNw&oe=6641F369	person_profile	ForFun-100	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173654_1083341156089831_520195298343574329_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2vQ0q0v69ocQ7kNvgGRubU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb9yMD6qX-wl3tCVeO0TkwXCmvLm7viQMBFVK_pCUMcA&oe=6641DDE7	3	ForFun-100	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,769,708	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1769709}'	Yes	2024-05-07 19:13	active	748	1523443898213763	Gains Giveaway! 🏋️	We're thanking those that risk their lives every single day for us. Thank you first responders, thank you military personnel. As a special thank you, we've got our Swag Bags up for grabs right now. What's included? Check it out: 🎒Our New Signature Gym Bag 👕 2 T-Shirts ✅Wrist Band ✅Shaker Cup ✅Face Mask ⭐AND MORE! Enter below for a chance to win! Thank you for your service.	SIGN_UP	https://5percentnutrition.com/hero?&utm_source=fac	439336769502128	5% Nutrition	https://facebook.com/5percentnutrition	77,219	1	1,318,491,868,611,285	2024-05-07 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Sign Up	5% Nutrition	23849958499950437	5percentnutrition.com	NONE	dco	Enter Here 👉	https://5percentnutrition.com/hero?&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=psc&utm_campaign=TF_MilitaryFirstResponderGiveaway&utm_content=LL1Website180_LL3FBLikeFollow_LL3Purchase180_FBLikeFollow	2022-03-25 11:38	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/277166860_3249906938561631_1644515076899438675_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tJtYfs0SRnEQ7kNvgFOftVF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBQae3N-Ic-f31kxag9OXSjZxW0dbnGCbGhFjclWVNGKA&oe=6640A274	person_profile	Rich Piana 5% Nutrition	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/277249520_2927354507556341_166472024138525147_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=igIdHBvVbNEQ7kNvgFpO80i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA6jFwjzHn578juIOGWHi5DaD6h8RxJbPJCIR0wca057w&oe=6640A11B	3	5% Nutrition	2024-05-07 02:00	View Edit Delete

Page 235 of 236, showing 20 record(s) out of 4,715 total

Download CSV New Ads

Search

Ads for Diet on 2024-05-07